One was that speakers frequently make a gaze shift towards a listener just before a nod is given.

ECONOMIST: Computer etiquette: Nods and winks | The

Anyone who wants to look clever at a cocktail party can simply make a disparaging remark about American schools and everyone will giggle and nod appreciatively.

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Still, in this year's ultracompetitive seats -- particularly those that have been subject to redistricting -- a nod from the NRA for a Democrat could make the difference between re-election and retirement.

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In an attempt to make it harder for organised criminals to arm themselves, and in a nod to global counter-terrorist efforts, a group of ten eastern and central African countries, including Ethiopia, Rwanda and Uganda, which owe their liberation movements partly to the Kalashnikov, has agreed to harmonise gun laws.

ECONOMIST: Guns in Africa

He has yet to make any senior appointments, and Vatican-watchers are keeping a keen eye on who gets the nod as sostituto.

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Deane, back after a two-game suspension, was left unmarked to nod home Alan Rogers' free-kick in the 72nd minute and make amends for a host of earlier misses.

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