How to Sign "Checking"
To sign 'checking', start with your non-dominant hand flat in front of you, palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into an index finger shape (the '1' handshape) and bring it up near your eye or cheek. Finally, move your dominant index finger down to strike or point at the palm of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'checking' is highly visual and iconic, drawing a direct connection between your vision and the object being reviewed. The dominant index finger starts near the eye, which represents your sight, attention, or focus. It then moves down to meet the flat, open non-dominant hand, which acts as a visual stand-in for a document, a list, or an object you are inspecting. Together, the motion perfectly illustrates the concept of casting your eyes downward to verify or examine something.
Signing Tips
To sign 'checking' clearly, focus on the starting and ending points of the motion. Make sure the movement of your dominant hand is deliberate and direct, traveling from the area near your eye down to your non-dominant palm. Your eyes can briefly follow the movement of your dominant hand to emphasize the action of looking or inspecting. Keep your non-dominant hand relaxed but steady, acting as a clear target for your dominant index finger. A slight nod can also help convey the confirmation aspect of checking.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is forgetting to start the dominant hand near the eye or face. If you just tap your palm without starting near the eye, it loses the visual connection to 'looking' or 'inspecting' and might be confused with other signs. Additionally, ensure your non-dominant hand remains flat and steady, like a piece of paper or a surface. Avoid moving both hands at the same time; your non-dominant hand should act as a stationary base for the action.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Checking" in a Sentence
1I am checking my email.
To express this, point to yourself to sign 'I', then perform the sign for 'checking' by moving your index finger from your eye to your palm. Finish by signing 'email'.
2Can you check my homework?
Start by pointing to the person for 'you', sign 'checking', and then sign 'my homework'. Make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to indicate you are asking a yes/no question.
3Let me check the schedule.
Sign 'me' by pointing to yourself, then use the 'checking' sign to show you are going to look at something. Follow this up with the sign for 'schedule' to complete the thought.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign mean a bank check?
No, this sign is specifically used for the action of investigating, inspecting, or verifying something. If you want to talk about a bank check, you would use a completely different sign, which typically involves drawing a rectangular shape in the air with your index fingers and thumbs to represent the physical paper check.
Can I use this sign for 'check a box'?
While the concepts are related, 'checking a box' on a form is usually signed by physically mimicking the action of drawing a checkmark in the air or directly onto your non-dominant hand. The sign shown here is broader and focuses more on the act of reviewing, inspecting, or looking over information.
Do I need to physically touch my face?
You do not need to physically touch your eye or cheek to perform this sign correctly. Simply bringing your dominant index finger close to your face before moving it down to your non-dominant palm is enough to clearly convey the meaning of looking or checking.
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