How to Sign "Brave"

To sign 'brave,' start with both hands open, palms facing your chest, resting near your shoulders. Pull both hands forward and slightly outward in a strong, deliberate motion while closing them into tight fists. The movement should look like you are grabbing onto your inner strength and pulling it forward.

Examples Using "Brave" in a Sentence

1

You are very brave.

Point to the person you are talking to, then sign 'brave' while maintaining a strong, affirming facial expression to encourage them.

2

I need to be brave today.

Sign 'today,' point to yourself, sign 'need,' and finish with 'brave' using a determined, confident look on your face.

3

The brave dog protected the house.

Sign 'dog,' then 'brave,' followed by the signs for 'protect' and 'house' to complete the thought.

How to Sign "Brave"
To sign 'brave,' start with both hands open, palms facing your chest, resting near your shoulders. Pull both hands forward and slightly outward in a strong, deliberate motion while closing them into tight fists. The movement should look like you are grabbing onto your inner strength and pulling it forward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic. It visually represents reaching into yourself, grabbing onto your inner strength, courage, or 'guts,' and pulling it forward to face a challenge.
Signing Tips
Your facial expression is just as important as your hands for this sign. Make sure to look confident, strong, or determined to match the meaning of 'brave.' The movement of pulling your hands into fists should be firm and deliberate, not loose or hesitant.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is performing the sign too softly or weakly, which contradicts the concept of bravery. Another mistake is starting with your hands already in fists, which misses the visual metaphor of gathering your strength.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Brave" in a Sentence
1

You are very brave.

Point to the person you are talking to, then sign 'brave' while maintaining a strong, affirming facial expression to encourage them.

2

I need to be brave today.

Sign 'today,' point to yourself, sign 'need,' and finish with 'brave' using a determined, confident look on your face.

3

The brave dog protected the house.

Sign 'dog,' then 'brave,' followed by the signs for 'protect' and 'house' to complete the thought.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'brave' the same sign as 'courage'?

Yes! The sign for 'brave' is also used for 'courage' and 'courageous.' The specific English translation depends on the context of your sentence.

Should my hands physically touch my chest at the beginning?

Your hands can lightly touch your upper chest or shoulders, or they can just hover very close to your body before you pull them forward into fists.

Does the speed of the sign matter?

Yes, a firm, slightly quick, and deliberate movement helps emphasize the strength and resolve associated with being brave.

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