Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Believe"

the sign 'believe' uses both hands. Rest the non-dominant hand in front of you with the palm facing up. Ball the dominant hand into a fist with the index finger outstretched, and tap the index finger to the temple. Flatten the hand as you bring it down to rest the dominant hand on top of the non-dominant.

Examples Using "Believe" in a Sentence

1

I believe you.

Point to yourself to sign 'I', perform the sign for 'believe' by touching your temple and bringing your flattened hand down to rest on your base hand, and then point to the person you are talking to for 'you'.

2

Do you believe in ghosts?

Sign 'ghost', point to the person for 'you', sign 'believe', and make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly at the end to indicate a yes/no question.

3

I can't believe it!

Sign 'I', then shake your head side-to-side while signing 'believe' to show disbelief. Use a surprised or shocked facial expression to convey the strong emotion of the sentence.

How to Sign "Believe"
the sign 'believe' uses both hands. Rest the non-dominant hand in front of you with the palm facing up. Ball the dominant hand into a fist with the index finger outstretched, and tap the index finger to the temple. Flatten the hand as you bring it down to rest the dominant hand on top of the non-dominant.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'believe' is a beautiful, intuitive combination of two distinct concepts. It starts with the sign for 'think' or 'mind' (tapping the index finger to the temple) and ends with a motion similar to 'marry' or 'clasp' (bringing the hands together). Visually, it represents taking a thought and holding onto it firmly, essentially 'marrying' yourself to an idea.
Signing Tips
Make sure the transition from the index finger at your temple to the flat hand is smooth. As your dominant hand moves downward, naturally open your fingers so it lands gently but firmly on your non-dominant hand. A firm clasp at the end helps convey the strong conviction of your belief.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is forgetting to change the handshape mid-sign. Beginners sometimes keep their dominant hand in an index finger shape the whole time, or they start with a flat hand at the temple. Remember to start with the index finger at your head, then flatten it as it moves down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Believe" in a Sentence
1

I believe you.

Point to yourself to sign 'I', perform the sign for 'believe' by touching your temple and bringing your flattened hand down to rest on your base hand, and then point to the person you are talking to for 'you'.

2

Do you believe in ghosts?

Sign 'ghost', point to the person for 'you', sign 'believe', and make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly at the end to indicate a yes/no question.

3

I can't believe it!

Sign 'I', then shake your head side-to-side while signing 'believe' to show disbelief. Use a surprised or shocked facial expression to convey the strong emotion of the sentence.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to tap my temple more than once?

No, a single, deliberate tap to the temple before bringing your hand down is perfect. Tapping multiple times can make the beginning of the sign look like 'think about' or 'ponder' rather than a confident 'believe.'

Does it matter which hand is on top?

Yes! Your dominant hand should always be the active hand that touches your temple and then comes down to rest on top. Your non-dominant hand acts as the stationary base, waiting palm-up in front of you.

How do I sign 'disbelieve' or 'don't believe'?

You use the exact same hand movements for 'believe,' but you add a negative headshake throughout the sign. Your facial expression should also show doubt, skepticism, or a slight frown to make the negative meaning clear.

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