dramatic gesture

[/drəˈmætɪk ˈdʒɛstʃər/]
nounpl: dramatic gestures
gesto dramático
1. An exaggerated or theatrical movement or action intended to express emotion, make a point, or attract attention
She made a dramatic gesture by throwing her hands in the air to express her frustration.
Ela fez um gesto dramático jogando as mãos para o ar para expressar sua frustração.
2. A bold or significant action taken to achieve an effect or demonstrate a point
In a dramatic gesture of solidarity, he donated half his fortune to charity.
Em um gesto dramático de solidariedade, ele doou metade de sua fortuna para a caridade.
3. A theatrical or exaggerated physical movement used in performance or communication
The actor's dramatic gesture conveyed the character's deep anguish.
O gesto dramático do ator transmitiu a angústia profunda do personagem.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, 'dramatic gesture' is commonly used in theater, cinema, and everyday speech to describe exaggerated or attention-grabbing actions. In Brazilian Portuguese, it may also be called 'gesto teatral' when referring specifically to theatrical performances. The phrase often carries a connotation of emotional expression or intentional exaggeration to make a point.
NYC Slang
over-the-top move
Synonyms / Sinônimos
theatrical gestureexpressive movementgrand gesturesweeping motionexaggerated action
Antonyms / Antônimos
subtle gestureunderstated movementrestrained actionmodest gesture

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
gesto dramático
Standard term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
gesto teatral
Alternative common in theatrical contexts
São Paulo
gesto dramático / gesto teatral
Both terms used interchangeably
Portugal
gesto dramático
Standard European Portuguese equivalent

Related Words

gesturetheatricalitydramaticsexpressionbody languagepantomime演技flourish

Related Idioms & Phrases

make a dramatic gesture
in a dramatic gesture of
with a dramatic gesture
throw in a dramatic gesture
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