How to Sign "Approximately"

Form an open "5" handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers spread and your palm facing forward. Hold your hand out in front of your chest and make small, continuous circular motions. You can also slightly furrow your brow or tilt your head to emphasize the concept of estimating or guessing.

Examples Using "Approximately" in a Sentence

1

The drive takes approximately two hours.

To sign this, you would first establish the context by signing 'drive', then use the circular '5' handshape for 'approximately', and finish by signing 'two hours'. The facial expression during 'approximately' shows it's an estimate.

2

There were approximately 50 people at the party.

Start by setting the scene with the sign for 'party'. Next, use your dominant hand to sign 'approximately' with the small circular motion, and finally sign the number '50' to indicate the estimated headcount.

3

I have approximately ten dollars left.

Begin by signing 'I have' to establish possession. Then, perform the circular motion for 'approximately' to show the amount isn't exact, followed by the signs for 'ten' and 'dollars' to complete the thought.

How to Sign "Approximately"
Form an open "5" handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers spread and your palm facing forward. Hold your hand out in front of your chest and make small, continuous circular motions. You can also slightly furrow your brow or tilt your head to emphasize the concept of estimating or guessing.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'approximately' or 'about' relies heavily on visual intuition. It uses a continuous, circular, wavering motion that visually represents hovering around a specific point, number, or time without landing on it exactly. The spread fingers of the '5' handshape further add to this visual concept, illustrating a broad, non-specific area or a general range rather than a precise, pinpointed amount.
Signing Tips
Keep your wrist relatively relaxed as you make the circular motion. The movement should come primarily from the wrist and forearm rather than swinging your entire arm. Adding a slight facial expression, such as a furrowed brow, a slight squint, or a tilted head, is crucial in ASL. It helps naturally convey the uncertainty, guessing, or estimation inherent in the word 'approximately'.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is drawing the circles too large or using their entire arm, which can look exaggerated or like you are waving at someone. Another frequent error is keeping the fingers tightly closed together instead of comfortably spread out in the '5' handshape. Remember to keep the circular motion small, controlled, and localized just in front of your chest.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Approximately" in a Sentence
1

The drive takes approximately two hours.

To sign this, you would first establish the context by signing 'drive', then use the circular '5' handshape for 'approximately', and finish by signing 'two hours'. The facial expression during 'approximately' shows it's an estimate.

2

There were approximately 50 people at the party.

Start by setting the scene with the sign for 'party'. Next, use your dominant hand to sign 'approximately' with the small circular motion, and finally sign the number '50' to indicate the estimated headcount.

3

I have approximately ten dollars left.

Begin by signing 'I have' to establish possession. Then, perform the circular motion for 'approximately' to show the amount isn't exact, followed by the signs for 'ten' and 'dollars' to complete the thought.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'about'?

Yes, this exact same sign is commonly used for both 'approximately', 'about', and 'around' when you are referring to numbers, time, or quantities. In ASL, a single sign often covers multiple English words that share the same underlying concept of estimation or guessing.

Does it matter which direction I make the circles?

Generally, the specific direction of the circle doesn't change the meaning of the sign. However, most signers naturally make the circular motion moving outward and away from the body. Focus more on keeping the circles small, fluid, and controlled rather than worrying about the exact direction.

Should I use one hand or two?

The sign for 'approximately' is strictly a one-handed sign. You should use your dominant hand to perform the circular '5' handshape motion. Your non-dominant hand is not involved in this sign and should remain relaxed at your side or in a neutral resting position.

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