How to Sign "Bummer"

To sign bummer, use your dominant hand to form an open '5' handshape, then bend your middle finger inward towards your palm. Bring your hand to the center of your chest and tap it twice with the tip of your bent middle finger. Make sure to use a disappointed or sympathetic facial expression to convey the meaning of the sign.

Examples Using "Bummer" in a Sentence

1

It's a bummer that the concert was canceled.

Sign 'concert' and 'cancel', then use the sign for 'bummer' while showing a clearly disappointed facial expression.

2

I heard you failed the test, what a bummer.

After signing the context of the failed test, sign 'bummer' while looking sympathetically at the person to show you feel bad for them.

3

Missing the trip is a huge bummer.

To show a 'huge' bummer, you can make the tapping motion slightly slower and more pronounced, accompanied by a deeper frown.

How to Sign "Bummer"
To sign bummer, use your dominant hand to form an open '5' handshape, then bend your middle finger inward towards your palm. Bring your hand to the center of your chest and tap it twice with the tip of your bent middle finger. Make sure to use a disappointed or sympathetic facial expression to convey the meaning of the sign.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is rooted in the ASL convention of placing emotion-related signs near the chest or heart. The handshape with the bent middle finger is commonly associated with feelings and sensitivity. By tapping this 'feeling' handshape on the chest with a disappointed expression, the sign visually conveys a heavy, sympathetic, or unfortunate emotional state.
Signing Tips
Your facial expression is just as important as the hand movement for this sign. A neutral face might make it look like you are simply signing 'feel', so be sure to clearly show disappointment or sympathy. The double tap should be light but distinct against the center of your chest.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is stroking the middle finger upward on the chest instead of tapping it. An upward stroke changes the meaning to the general word 'feel'. Make sure to use a distinct, brief tapping motion to clearly communicate 'bummer'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Bummer" in a Sentence
1

It's a bummer that the concert was canceled.

Sign 'concert' and 'cancel', then use the sign for 'bummer' while showing a clearly disappointed facial expression.

2

I heard you failed the test, what a bummer.

After signing the context of the failed test, sign 'bummer' while looking sympathetically at the person to show you feel bad for them.

3

Missing the trip is a huge bummer.

To show a 'huge' bummer, you can make the tapping motion slightly slower and more pronounced, accompanied by a deeper frown.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for bummer the same as feel?

They are very similar and use the same handshape and location, but the movement differs. 'Feel' typically uses a smooth upward stroking motion on the chest, whereas 'bummer' uses a distinct double tap. Your facial expression is also crucial for showing disappointment.

Can I use this sign to say 'I feel sorry for you'?

Yes, this sign is frequently used to express sympathy or pity. When a friend shares minor bad news, signing 'bummer' with a compassionate or sad facial expression is a very natural and appropriate ASL response.

Do I use one hand or two hands for this sign?

You only need to use one hand. Use your dominant hand to perform the tapping motion on the center of your chest while keeping your non-dominant hand relaxed at your side.

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