Cheek-Kissing As A Form Of Greeting Including The Number Of Kisses Given

Map found on redditThe map above shows where in the world cheek-kissing is used as form of greeting and how many kisses are typically given.

Here’s a bit more about the regional breakdown custom:

• Europe: Cheek-kissing is most common, particularly in Mediterranean and Eastern European countries. Countries like France and parts of the Balkans practice multiple kisses, with numbers varying from 2 to 4.
• South America: Cheek-kissing is prevalent, typically involving 1 or 2 kisses, especially in countries like Brazil and Argentina.
• Middle East and North Africa: The practice exists but is less uniform. Some regions might exchange 2 or more kisses.
• Asia: Cheek-kissing is uncommon in most parts of Asia, except in some Middle Eastern and parts of Southeast Asia.
• North America and Australia: The practice is relatively rare, though some immigrant communities might follow these customs.

And in case you’re wondering Afghanistan is the lone country using 8 kisses, but only in some cases the rest of the time it’s 1. Reddit user Apex2021 explains:

An Afghan there are in-betweens. In my experience It’s 1 kiss when you see someone frequently, 3 for meets of about a week and ~8 when it’s been months since you last saw them and you two are very close. Its more nuannced than that but thats the jist of it. 1, 2 and 3 kisses are the most common.

Why Do People Use Cheek-Kissing as a Greeting?

1. Expression of Affection and Warmth:
   • Cheek-kissing is a gesture of closeness, used to convey familiarity, friendliness, and affection.
   • It creates a personal connection and is often reserved for friends, family, or acquaintances.
2. Cultural and Historical Roots:
   • Many Mediterranean, Latin American, and European cultures have long-standing traditions of cheek-kissing.
   • In some cultures, it originated as a sign of respect or trust and evolved into a broader social norm.
3. Symbol of Respect and Status:
   • Historically, cheek-kissing was used in hierarchical societies to show deference (e.g., kissing a superior’s cheek or hand).
   • Today, it’s often seen as a symbol of mutual respect between peers.
4. Non-Verbal Communication:
   • It serves as a non-verbal way of greeting that bypasses the need for verbal expressions.
   • The number of kisses can carry symbolic meanings in certain regions, such as cultural traditions or specific forms of politeness.
5. Breaking Personal Barriers:
   • Physical gestures like cheek-kissing help break barriers of formality and make interactions feel warmer and more human.

Alternatives to Cheek-Kissing

1. Handshakes:
   • Common in professional and formal settings, especially in Western cultures.
   • A firm handshake conveys confidence and respect.
2. Hugs:
   • A common alternative, particularly in more personal or informal settings.
   • It signifies closeness and affection, similar to cheek-kissing.
3. Bows:
   • Used predominantly in East Asian cultures (e.g., Japan, Korea) to show respect and humility.
   • The depth of the bow can indicate the degree of respect being expressed.
4. Nods or Hand Gestures:
   • In some cultures, a nod, wave, or simple hand gesture is sufficient, especially when physical contact is avoided.
5. Namaste (or Prayer Hands):
   • A traditional greeting in South Asian cultures where hands are brought together in front of the chest with a slight bow.
   • It conveys respect and avoids physical contact.
6. Verbal Greetings:
   • Saying phrases like “hello,” “hi,” or specific cultural phrases (e.g., “Salam,” “Bonjour,” “Ciao”) without accompanying physical gestures.
7. Elbow or Fist Bumps:
   • Modern alternatives that gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic to minimize physical contact.
   • Seen as casual, friendly, and hygienic.
8. Cheek-to-Cheek Gestures:
   • In some cultures, individuals bring cheeks close together and mimic a kissing sound without actual contact.

Why Alternatives Might Be Used

1. Cultural Norms:
   • In many cultures (e.g., much of Asia, North America), cheek-kissing may be considered overly intimate.
2. Health and Hygiene:
   • Concerns about spreading germs (especially during pandemics like COVID-19) have prompted people to prefer contactless greetings.
3. Personal Preferences:
   • Some individuals might feel uncomfortable with physical contact for personal or cultural reasons.
4. Contextual Formality:
   • Professional or formal settings often avoid cheek-kissing in favor of less intimate greetings like handshakes.

 

In summary:

What do you think of cheek-kissing as greeting?