If you ever find yourself in Serbia, you will notice that communication extends far beyond words. During the very first interaction, you might be embraced in a warm hug and given no less than three kisses on the cheeks. This will break all the ice that needs to be broken, and you will soon realise that Serbs are expressive people who love to exaggerate their emotions, joke around, or simply show respect with large hand and body gestures.
Although nonverbal communication speaks across all cultures, each nationality brings something unique to the table – and Serbia has quite a few gestures to offer. Let’s explore some of the most common Serbian gestures that will help you understand Serbs and the Serbian language on a whole new level!
The triple kiss on the cheeks
Three is a significant number in Serbia, drawing its sacred value from the Orthodox religion and the Holy Trinity. This is one of the reasons why, in Serbia, greeting close friends and family often involves three kisses on the cheeks—left, right, left. While many European cultures stick to two, Serbs take it a step further. An even number is considered to bring bad luck, so ensuring an odd number of kisses can never go wrong. Take this as the friendliest of warnings – even if you are a stranger, you might be pulled into this loving custom!
The famous “c c c” – the Serbian sound of disapproval
If you spend enough time around Serbs, you will quickly notice a peculiar sound that seems to pop up in conversations – c, c, c… (pronounced as ts, ts, ts). This is the spice that adds something special to any expression of disapproval, disbelief, mild disappointment, or just pity. However, this funny sound can also be meant in jest, depending largely on the context and the clues on your interlocutor’s face. It’s often accompanied by a slow headshake or an exaggerated sigh, just to make sure the level of dismay is properly conveyed.
Got some shocking news? C, c, c… Gossiping about your neighbour’s questionable life choices? C, c, c… Leaving the house without a jacket in cold weather? – You get the picture.
In English, the closest equivalent might be a “tsk tsk” sound or tutting, but in Serbian, it is a simple, yet deeply expressive and dramatic comment.
A firm handshake and a shoulder pat
Handshakes can sometimes be quite tricky. We never know what amount of strength to invest in a good, warm, and yet professional handshake, while the cultural appropriateness of it can vary from country to country. However, this is a clear and transparent gesture in Serbia – the firmer the handshake, the better. Along with a handshake, and if a Serbian really likes you, expect a strong pat on the shoulder or even a few slaps on the back. It is a sign of warmth, trust, and camaraderie. If you get a bear hug, congratulations! You are officially one of them.
Pu, pu, pu against spells
You might have noticed that the pattern of three keeps repeating itself. The lucky number strikes again, and this time it is concerned with the superstitious spitting ritual against evil – how exciting is that!
Firstly, it must be said that – no, Serbs are not actually spitting on you. If someone praises a child for being beautiful or smart, you will often hear: Pu, pu, pu, da ne čuje zlo! (Spit, spit, spit, so evil doesn’t hear). This superstition is meant to confuse and repel any bad luck that may come your way, and it is quite similar to “Knock on wood!” – which is, of course, also done three times.
The “Fig” gesture
This funny little gesture, known as šipak, has drastically changed its meaning over time. Initially, the šipak was a sign used to protect an individual from evil. Today, however, the thumb between the index and middle finger is a funny way to say “you wish!” or “not gonna happen!”
While parents warn their children not to give the fig to anyone, as it is considered rude and obscene, others even believe the fig brings good luck. Final say – mind how you use the fig, and don’t mind if someone else uses it wrongly.
Crossing yourself three times
A quick prayer in every situation is quite convenient, everyone would agree. What you might notice in Serbia, whether passing by a church, hearing bad news, or even seeing something overwhelming, is that many Serbs instinctively cross themselves either once or, you guessed it, three times. This gesture is a deep-rooted religious practice but is also used out of habit to seek divine protection.
Treats without tricks
If you have ever gone out with Serbs for a drink or a meal, chances are you have witnessed the phenomenon known as čašćavanje. In Serbia, splitting the bill or “going Dutch” is not as common as in some other cultures. In fact, the most common situation is that one person insists on covering the entire tab, and the next time, someone else returns the favour.
When someone says Ja častim! (meaning “It’s on me!”), it is not just a casual offer – it is a statement of friendship, respect, or gratitude, and it’s usually non-negotiable. The best thing is that it works for all occasions – a morning coffee, a heavy dinner in a kafana, or rounds of rakija. Čašćavanje is a silent but powerful gesture of generosity and hospitality.
These are just some of the many gestures that make Serbian communication so lively and expressive. The more time you spend with the locals, the more body language tips you’ll pick up. Luckily, there are no serious blunders or social mistakes to be made. Don’t overthink to offer your hand first when shaking hands, and feel free to try out some of the gestures we mentioned. After all, body language is sometimes a whole new language to learn.
Whether you’re greeted with a triple kiss, or “spat” on for protection, embrace the charm of Serbian body language—it’s all part of the culture!
