How to Sign "Bring"

To sign 'bring', form both hands into flat shapes with your palms facing up, as if you are holding a large tray or box. Start with both hands positioned on one side of your body. Then, move both hands together in a smooth, sweeping motion to the other side.

Examples Using "Bring" in a Sentence

1

Please bring your laptop to the meeting.

Sign 'bring' by moving your flat, upward-facing hands from a neutral space outward toward the imagined location of the meeting.

2

Can you bring me a glass of water?

Modify the movement of 'bring' so your hands start away from you and move inward toward your chest, showing the water being brought to you.

3

I forgot to bring my keys.

Sign 'bring' moving toward yourself, indicating the action of bringing the keys to your current location.

How to Sign "Bring"
To sign 'bring', form both hands into flat shapes with your palms facing up, as if you are holding a large tray or box. Start with both hands positioned on one side of your body. Then, move both hands together in a smooth, sweeping motion to the other side.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'bring' is highly iconic. The flat, upward-facing hands mimic the physical action of holding or carrying a physical object, like a tray or a package. The movement of the hands visually represents the transportation of that object from one location to another.
Signing Tips
The sign for 'bring' is directional. This means you can change the starting and ending points of the movement to show who is bringing what to whom. Move your hands from the starting location of the object to its final destination.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is keeping the hands stationary or only using one hand. Remember that 'bring' usually involves both hands moving together to show the transfer of an object. Also, ensure your palms stay facing up throughout the entire movement.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Bring" in a Sentence
1

Please bring your laptop to the meeting.

Sign 'bring' by moving your flat, upward-facing hands from a neutral space outward toward the imagined location of the meeting.

2

Can you bring me a glass of water?

Modify the movement of 'bring' so your hands start away from you and move inward toward your chest, showing the water being brought to you.

3

I forgot to bring my keys.

Sign 'bring' moving toward yourself, indicating the action of bringing the keys to your current location.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I show who is bringing something to whom?

You can change the direction of the sign! If you are bringing something to a friend, move your hands from your body toward them. If they are bringing it to you, move your hands from them toward your body.

Is this sign the same as 'carry'?

Yes, 'bring' and 'carry' use the exact same sign. The context of your sentence will let the other person know which English concept you mean.

Should my hands touch during this sign?

No, your hands should remain a few inches apart and parallel to each other, as if supporting the bottom of a box or tray.

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