Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Argue"

Form both hands into '1' handshapes with your index fingers extended. Hold them in front of your chest, pointing the fingers somewhat toward each other. Move your hands up and down in a sharp, alternating motion, as if the two fingers are clashing in a debate. Remember to furrow your eyebrows to convey the conflict of an argument.

Examples Using "Argue" in a Sentence

1

They argue all the time.

Sign 'THEY', then use the alternating '1' handshape movement for 'ARGUE', followed by 'ALL-THE-TIME'. Make sure your facial expression matches the frustration of constant arguing.

2

Please don't argue with me.

Sign 'PLEASE', 'DON'T', and then 'ARGUE'. You can angle the sign slightly between yourself and the person you are talking to, showing the back-and-forth between the two of you.

3

We had a big argument.

Sign 'WE', then sign 'ARGUE' with larger, sharper movements to emphasize that it was a 'big' argument. Your facial expression should be very intense to match the severity.

How to Sign "Argue"
Form both hands into '1' handshapes with your index fingers extended. Hold them in front of your chest, pointing the fingers somewhat toward each other. Move your hands up and down in a sharp, alternating motion, as if the two fingers are clashing in a debate. Remember to furrow your eyebrows to convey the conflict of an argument.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'argue' is highly visual and iconic. The two index fingers represent two different people or two opposing viewpoints. The sharp, alternating up-and-down movement mimics the back-and-forth nature of a verbal disagreement, showing the two sides clashing with one another.
Signing Tips
Focus on the sharp, alternating movement of your index fingers. The movement shouldn't be smooth; it needs a bit of tension to convey conflict. Your facial expression is just as important as your hands here—furrow your eyebrows and tighten your lips to clearly show that this is a disagreement.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is pointing the index fingers straight up or making the movement too soft and flowing. If the motion is too gentle and your face is relaxed, it won't convey the friction of an argument. Keep the fingers pointed somewhat toward each other and the movement crisp.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Argue" in a Sentence
1

They argue all the time.

Sign 'THEY', then use the alternating '1' handshape movement for 'ARGUE', followed by 'ALL-THE-TIME'. Make sure your facial expression matches the frustration of constant arguing.

2

Please don't argue with me.

Sign 'PLEASE', 'DON'T', and then 'ARGUE'. You can angle the sign slightly between yourself and the person you are talking to, showing the back-and-forth between the two of you.

3

We had a big argument.

Sign 'WE', then sign 'ARGUE' with larger, sharper movements to emphasize that it was a 'big' argument. Your facial expression should be very intense to match the severity.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use a specific facial expression for 'argue'?

Yes! In ASL, facial expressions act like your tone of voice. To clearly show an argument, you should furrow your eyebrows and look slightly frustrated or intense. Without this expression, the meaning loses its impact.

Is this sign used for a physical fight?

No, this sign specifically refers to a verbal disagreement or debate. If you want to talk about a physical altercation, you would use the sign for 'fight,' which uses 'S' handshapes (fists) crossing each other.

Can I change the direction of the sign?

Yes, this sign is directional. If you are arguing with someone in front of you, the fingers might point between you and them. If two other people are arguing, you can position the sign slightly off to the side to represent them.

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