To sign 'captain,' you will combine two distinct movements. Begin by making the sign for 'boat': cup both of your hands together with your pinkies touching, and move them forward in a slight bouncing motion to mimic a vessel riding on the water. Next, form a 'C' handshape with your dominant hand and bring it up to tap against your dominant shoulder. This shoulder tap represents the rank insignia or epaulets traditionally worn on a commanding officer's uniform.
Sign 'captain' as described, then use both hands to mimic turning a large steering wheel to show the action.
Point to yourself, sign 'want,' sign 'meet' by bringing two index fingers together, and finish with the sign for 'captain.'
Sign 'captain,' then sign 'take care of' or 'control' to indicate their leadership role over the people on the boat.
Sign 'captain' as described, then use both hands to mimic turning a large steering wheel to show the action.
Point to yourself, sign 'want,' sign 'meet' by bringing two index fingers together, and finish with the sign for 'captain.'
Sign 'captain,' then sign 'take care of' or 'control' to indicate their leadership role over the people on the boat.
The version shown in the video includes the sign for 'boat,' making it specific to a ship's captain. If you are referring to a sports team captain, you would drop the 'boat' sign and only use the 'C' handshape tapping your shoulder to indicate their leadership role.
Yes, you should always tap the shoulder on the same side as your dominant hand. Reaching across your body to tap the opposite shoulder is not standard in ASL, as it requires unnecessary effort and breaks the natural flow of the sign.
A single, deliberate tap or a quick double tap are both perfectly acceptable. The main goal is to clearly draw attention to the location of the rank insignia on the shoulder. Just ensure the tap is firm enough to be easily noticed by the person you are signing with.
