How to Sign "Agree"

To sign 'agree,' start by touching your forehead with the index finger of your dominant hand, similar to the sign for 'think.' Next, bring both hands in front of your body with your index fingers extended and pointing forward. Bring the two index fingers side-by-side so they are parallel, which represents the sign for 'same.'

Examples Using "Agree" in a Sentence

1

I agree with you.

Point to yourself to sign 'I', perform the sign for 'agree' by touching your forehead and bringing your parallel index fingers forward, and then point to the person you are talking to.

2

Do we agree on the plan?

Sign 'agree' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question, then sign 'plan' by sweeping both flat hands from left to right in front of you.

3

They didn't agree.

Point to the people you are referring to, sign 'agree', and then shake your head while signing 'not' (bringing your thumb out from under your chin) to show the negative.

How to Sign "Agree"
To sign 'agree,' start by touching your forehead with the index finger of your dominant hand, similar to the sign for 'think.' Next, bring both hands in front of your body with your index fingers extended and pointing forward. Bring the two index fingers side-by-side so they are parallel, which represents the sign for 'same.'
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'agree' is a wonderful example of a compound sign in ASL, combining two distinct concepts to create a new meaning. It merges the sign for 'think' (pointing to the brain or forehead) with the sign for 'same' or 'alike' (parallel index fingers). Visually, it translates perfectly to the literal concept of 'thinking the same' or 'being of the same mind.'
Signing Tips
Focus on the smooth transition between the two parts of this compound sign. The movement from the forehead down to the parallel index fingers should feel like one continuous, fluid motion rather than two separate, choppy signs. Make sure your index fingers end up perfectly side-by-side to clearly convey the idea of being on the same page.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is forgetting the first part of the sign (touching the forehead) and only signing 'same' with parallel index fingers. While context might help people understand you, the true sign for 'agree' requires starting at the head to show that your thoughts are the same. Also, ensure your index fingers point forward at the end, not upward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Agree" in a Sentence
1

I agree with you.

Point to yourself to sign 'I', perform the sign for 'agree' by touching your forehead and bringing your parallel index fingers forward, and then point to the person you are talking to.

2

Do we agree on the plan?

Sign 'agree' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question, then sign 'plan' by sweeping both flat hands from left to right in front of you.

3

They didn't agree.

Point to the people you are referring to, sign 'agree', and then shake your head while signing 'not' (bringing your thumb out from under your chin) to show the negative.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to touch my forehead every time I sign 'agree'?

Yes, for the formal sign 'agree,' you should start at the forehead. If you only use the parallel index fingers, you are just signing 'same' or 'alike.' Starting at the head clarifies that you are talking about shared thoughts or opinions.

Can I use this sign to say 'I agree to the terms'?

Yes! This sign works well for expressing that you are in alignment with a statement, a person, or a set of terms. It broadly covers the English concepts of agreeing, concurring, or being on the same page.

Which hand should touch my forehead?

You should use your dominant hand to touch your forehead for the 'think' portion of the sign. Your non-dominant hand can wait in front of your body, ready to meet your dominant hand for the 'same' portion of the sign.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!