How to Sign "Active"
To sign "active," form both hands into "C" shapes with your palms facing down. Hold your hands out in front of your body. Swing both hands side to side simultaneously a few times in a smooth, continuous motion.
Examples Using "Active" in a Sentence
1
My dog is very active.
Sign "MY DOG" followed by the sign for "ACTIVE." You can add an energetic facial expression to emphasize just how active the dog is.
2
I try to stay active every day.
Sign "I TRY STAY ACTIVE EVERY-DAY." Keep the side-to-side movement of "active" smooth to show ongoing effort.
3
Are you active in sports?
Sign "YOU ACTIVE SPORTS?" Remember to raise your eyebrows while signing to indicate that you are asking a yes/no question.
How to Sign "Active"
To sign "active," form both hands into "C" shapes with your palms facing down. Hold your hands out in front of your body. Swing both hands side to side simultaneously a few times in a smooth, continuous motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "active" is closely related to the sign for "do" or "action." The sweeping, continuous movement of the hands visually represents ongoing activity, busyness, or getting things done.
Signing Tips
Keep your wrists loose and your movements fluid to convey the natural energy of being active. Your "C" handshapes should be relaxed rather than rigid.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the side-to-side movement too stiff or robotic, which looks unnatural. Another mistake is using flat hands instead of the "C" handshape, which can make the sign unclear.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Active" in a Sentence
1My dog is very active.
Sign "MY DOG" followed by the sign for "ACTIVE." You can add an energetic facial expression to emphasize just how active the dog is.
2I try to stay active every day.
Sign "I TRY STAY ACTIVE EVERY-DAY." Keep the side-to-side movement of "active" smooth to show ongoing effort.
3Are you active in sports?
Sign "YOU ACTIVE SPORTS?" Remember to raise your eyebrows while signing to indicate that you are asking a yes/no question.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as "do"?
Yes, "active" uses the same sign as "do" or "action." The context of your sentence and your facial expressions will make it clear which specific English concept you are conveying.
Can I alternate my hands instead of moving them together?
For "active," the standard movement is to swing both hands side to side simultaneously. Alternating the hands in a circular motion changes the meaning to "acting" or "drama."
How big should the side-to-side movement be?
Keep the movement comfortable and within the width of your torso. It shouldn't be overly exaggerated unless you are specifically emphasizing that someone is extremely active.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!