How to Sign "Begin"

To sign 'begin,' hold your non-dominant hand flat with the fingers pointing forward and the palm facing your dominant side. Extend the index finger of your dominant hand. Place the tip of your dominant index finger between the index and middle fingers of your non-dominant hand, then twist it slightly as if you are turning a key in an ignition.

Examples Using "Begin" in a Sentence

1

Let's begin the meeting.

Sign 'begin' followed by 'meeting.' You can use an enthusiastic, engaged facial expression and a slight nod to show your readiness to start the event.

2

When does the movie begin?

Use the WH-question facial expression by furrowing your eyebrows. Sign 'movie,' then 'begin,' and finally 'when,' holding the last sign to indicate you are waiting for an answer.

3

I will begin working tomorrow.

Sign 'tomorrow,' then point to yourself for 'I,' followed by 'begin,' and finally 'work.' Emphasize the twisting motion in 'begin' to clearly show the initiation of your task.

How to Sign "Begin"
To sign 'begin,' hold your non-dominant hand flat with the fingers pointing forward and the palm facing your dominant side. Extend the index finger of your dominant hand. Place the tip of your dominant index finger between the index and middle fingers of your non-dominant hand, then twist it slightly as if you are turning a key in an ignition.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual motivation behind the sign for 'begin' is highly iconic and easy to remember. It mimics the action of starting a machine or a vehicle. Your non-dominant hand represents the ignition slot, while your dominant index finger acts as the key turning to initiate the action and bring the engine to life.
Signing Tips
To make your sign look natural, think of your non-dominant hand as the ignition switch of a car. Keep it completely stationary and relaxed. Let your dominant hand do all the work by smoothly twisting the index finger, just like turning a key to start an engine. Ensure the movement is crisp and deliberate.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is moving both hands at the same time. Remember that your non-dominant hand must stay still. Another common error is placing the dominant index finger on top of the hand or inside a closed fist, rather than sliding it specifically between the open index and middle fingers.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Begin" in a Sentence
1

Let's begin the meeting.

Sign 'begin' followed by 'meeting.' You can use an enthusiastic, engaged facial expression and a slight nod to show your readiness to start the event.

2

When does the movie begin?

Use the WH-question facial expression by furrowing your eyebrows. Sign 'movie,' then 'begin,' and finally 'when,' holding the last sign to indicate you are waiting for an answer.

3

I will begin working tomorrow.

Sign 'tomorrow,' then point to yourself for 'I,' followed by 'begin,' and finally 'work.' Emphasize the twisting motion in 'begin' to clearly show the initiation of your task.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between 'begin' and 'start' in ASL?

No, the sign for 'begin' and 'start' is exactly the same. You can use this sign interchangeably for both English words depending on the context of your sentence.

Does it matter which way I twist my finger?

Yes, you should twist your dominant hand inward, towards your body, similar to the natural motion of turning a key to start a car's ignition.

Should my non-dominant hand move during this sign?

No, your non-dominant hand should remain completely still. It acts as the stationary base or 'ignition,' while only your dominant hand performs the twisting motion.

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