Basic
TH for Careless Action
TH shows that an action is careless, sloppy, lazy, mindless, or not precise.
All Mouth Morphemes lessons
Learn It
Start with the simple version, then practice it with real signs.
Use TH when someone does something without care. The tongue shows slightly between the teeth or lips.
TH can change a verb from a plain action into a careless action.
This is a strong beginner skill because it adds manner without needing a separate English adverb.
Tongue visibleLet the tongue show slightly.
Careless meaningUse it for sloppy, lazy, or mindless action.
Verb helperIt often describes how an action is done.
Try It
Practice slowly. Make the mouth shape at the same time as the sign.
- Sign with TH to show scribbling or sloppy writing.
- Sign with TH to show wandering without paying attention.
- Sign with TH to show cleaning carelessly.
Simple Examples
Read the ASL line first. A dark green pill names the mouth shape, not an extra sign.
ASL line. TH mouth
MeaningWrite carelessly or scribble.
TipThe hand signs WRITE, and TH tells how it happens.
Mouth actionTH mouthShow the tongue slightly during WRITE.
ASL line. TH mouth
MeaningWalk aimlessly or clumsily.
TipTH makes the walking look unfocused.
Mouth actionTH mouthUse the careless mouth shape while showing the action.
ASL line. TH mouth
MeaningClean in a sloppy way.
TipThe action may happen, but not carefully.
Mouth actionTH mouthLet the tongue show as the careless action happens.
Common Mistake
Do not stick your tongue far out. A small visible TH shape is enough.
A little more grammar
TH works like an adverb layered onto the verb. The manual sign gives the action, and the mouth shows the manner.