Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Annoyed"

To sign 'annoyed', hold your non-dominant hand in front of you with the fingers pointing forward and the thumb pointing up, creating an open shape. Form a flat handshape with your dominant hand. Strike the pinky-side edge of your dominant hand into the space between the thumb and index finger of your non-dominant hand. You can do this with a single sharp motion or a quick double tap. Make sure to include a frustrated or annoyed facial expression to match the meaning of the word.

Examples Using "Annoyed" in a Sentence

1

I am annoyed by the loud noise.

Point to yourself, sign 'annoyed' with a frustrated expression, and then sign 'loud noise'. Make sure your face clearly shows your irritation.

2

My brother always annoys me.

Sign 'my', 'brother', 'always', and then sign 'annoyed'. You can make the movement a bit sharper to emphasize just how much he bothers you.

3

Are you annoyed with me?

Point to the person, sign 'annoyed', and point to yourself. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly.

How to Sign "Annoyed"
To sign 'annoyed', hold your non-dominant hand in front of you with the fingers pointing forward and the thumb pointing up, creating an open shape. Form a flat handshape with your dominant hand. Strike the pinky-side edge of your dominant hand into the space between the thumb and index finger of your non-dominant hand. You can do this with a single sharp motion or a quick double tap. Make sure to include a frustrated or annoyed facial expression to match the meaning of the word.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents an interruption, an obstacle, or a wedge being driven into something. The dominant hand acts like a wedge repeatedly striking or 'bothering' the non-dominant hand. This perfectly illustrates the persistent, irritating feeling of being interrupted or bothered by someone or something.
Signing Tips
Facial expressions are absolutely crucial for this sign! A blank face won't convey the emotion properly. Be sure to scrunch your nose, furrow your eyebrows, or purse your lips to show true annoyance. The movement itself should be a crisp, sharp tap to emphasize the irritated feeling. If you are very annoyed, make the striking motion harder and faster.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is clapping their hands together flatly instead of striking the specific webbed area between the thumb and index finger. Make sure only the pinky edge of your dominant hand makes contact with the non-dominant hand. Another mistake is forgetting the facial expression, which leaves the sign feeling empty.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Annoyed" in a Sentence
1

I am annoyed by the loud noise.

Point to yourself, sign 'annoyed' with a frustrated expression, and then sign 'loud noise'. Make sure your face clearly shows your irritation.

2

My brother always annoys me.

Sign 'my', 'brother', 'always', and then sign 'annoyed'. You can make the movement a bit sharper to emphasize just how much he bothers you.

3

Are you annoyed with me?

Point to the person, sign 'annoyed', and point to yourself. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'annoyed' the same as 'bother'?

Yes, 'annoyed' and 'bother' use the exact same base sign. The difference is often shown in the movement and your facial expression. 'Annoyed' might be a single, sharper movement with a strong expression, while 'bother' often uses repeated tapping.

Does it matter which hand I use to strike?

Yes, you should always use your dominant hand to do the striking or moving. Your non-dominant hand should stay stationary as the base. This keeps your signing clear and consistent.

Can I sign this without a facial expression?

In ASL, facial expressions act like your tone of voice. Signing 'annoyed' with a neutral face is like saying 'I am so mad' in a completely flat, monotone voice. Always include the expression to convey the true meaning!

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