ID Someone’s Sign ... Without Having to Ask

How to spot each sign of the zodiac

by Judi Vitale

The necessary nightmare that we call "socializing" is much easier when we know what we're dealing with -- that’s why the ability to ID someone’s astrological sign is so helpful. In an age where we can say anything while we hide behind an electronic profile or "don't ask, don't tell" work policy, finding out a person's sign can be a true challenge. Here's a swift guide that helps to pin down the zodiac identity of the people you meet -- in work, in love or out there on the street.

They can try to put their best foot forward, but when the chips are down, they always show their signs...

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
The restless Ram is pretty easy to spot. There are two things a true Aries just cannot do: follow directions and wait to be served. They can display a savage temper, but it blows over quickly.

Dead Giveaway:
Rather than waiting in line, pushes through the spaces between human bodies more adroitly than the average NFL linebacker.
• Males have been spotted dropping out of the fast-food breakfast line to zip by the drive-thru window ... on foot.
• A lady Aries can bowl over people several times her size, should any unfortunate souls get between her and her favorite morning beverage -- a latte gigante with four shots of espresso.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Protective Bulls rarely bother anybody, mainly because they hate to move. Taurus makes up for physical inertia with an annoying penchant for logistical gymnastics.

Dead Giveaway:
Sizes up the portions, whether it's food, work assignments or office supplies -- then takes the one that will provide the most sensual comfort. Extra binder clips and huge hunks of chocolate cake? YES. The challenging client or complicated presentation? Not so much.
• The average Taurus male will not move from his recliner until every hour of the next six months has been successfully TiVo'ed.
• The female Bull's not-so-subtle way of controlling other people can mean that simple dinner plans are formed only after at least 20 emails have been exchanged.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Go ahead -- try to get through a full conversation without changing the topic at least twice. If a Gemini isn't thinking about the next appointment, he or she is IM-ing someone a synopsis of what you're saying right then and there.

Dead Giveaway:
Rarely stops talking, whether at the movies or a somber ceremony. Also, moves fast and furiously -- so check the brakes before you let Gemini drive you around.
• The male won't let you see his evil twin -- until his girlfriend hands him the "old tomato."
• The female Gemini may not realize she's flirting (with the wrong guy) at her own wedding reception.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Nurturing, sweet Cancer can morph into Mommie Dearest without advance notice. All you have to do is give this hypersensitive creature reason to suspect he or she's being betrayed. They can be calmed with calorie-intensive food or a reason why the world can't survive without them.

Dead Giveaway:
Can evaluate a restaurant by standing in the entrance and getting a good whiff of what's coming out of the kitchen.
• The male Cancer will get bitchy if you dare to be late after he's slaved away at making you a hot dinner.
• The female Cancer will squire the hamster around in a baby carrier, as a subtle hint that she's pining for the real thing.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)
These proud and gallant creatures refuse to go unnoticed. Even if your dog just got run over in your best friend's fatal car crash, Leos will find a way to make it all about them. Can often be seen emoting heavily over a dish of eggs that were supposed to be poached, but came out (gasp) fried.

Dead Giveaway:
Sees any large celebration, tilts head sideways and purrs, "You shouldn't have!"
• The male Leo insists that everyone clear the way so he can make his royal entrance -- to the men's room.
• The Leo female has been known to spend hours of time, and her last dime, on hair products.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Virgo can come across as picky and cranky, but they're just worried about getting stuff done. Don't cringe when they offer "friendly suggestions" for the 1,000,000 ways that you can improve your life.

Dead Giveaway:
Carries an extra bottle of hand sanitizer, in the event an unfamiliar doorknob or steering wheel must be touched.
• The male Virgo accounts for every last paper clip in the office -- and thinks his domestic partner should appreciate the way he alphabetized the cereals in the kitchen pantry.
• The female Virgo will red-pencil her boss' memo in the middle of a key meeting, then hang her partner's jeans in the bedroom closet according to the degree of fade.

How to ID Someone by Their Sign -- Continued »