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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Cope"

To sign 'cope,' form your dominant hand into an 'A' handshape, making a fist with your thumb resting alongside your index finger. Place the tip or side of your thumb against your chin, just below your lower lip. Drag your thumb downward along your chin in a smooth, deliberate motion. This is the same sign commonly used for 'patience' or 'endure.'

Examples Using "Cope" in a Sentence

1

I am trying to cope with the stress.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I', sign 'try', and then use the sign for 'cope' by dragging your 'A' handshape down your chin, followed by the sign for 'stress'.

2

She copes well with changes.

Start by pointing to the person for 'she', then use the 'cope' sign on your chin. Follow this up with the signs for 'good' and 'change' to complete the thought.

3

How do you cope?

Point to the person you are asking for 'you', sign 'cope', and then sign 'how'. Remember to furrow your eyebrows at the end to indicate a 'wh-' question.

How to Sign "Cope"
To sign 'cope,' form your dominant hand into an 'A' handshape, making a fist with your thumb resting alongside your index finger. Place the tip or side of your thumb against your chin, just below your lower lip. Drag your thumb downward along your chin in a smooth, deliberate motion. This is the same sign commonly used for 'patience' or 'endure.'
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is conceptually tied to words like 'patience,' 'endure,' and 'bear.' The visual motivation behind the sign comes from the idea of keeping your lips sealed and quietly bearing through a difficult situation. By dragging the thumb down the chin, it visually represents holding back complaints and showing quiet resilience. In ASL, signs often group around shared concepts rather than direct English translations, which is why 'cope' shares this resilient imagery.
Signing Tips
When signing 'cope,' remember that facial expressions are a crucial part of ASL grammar. Keep your facial expression aligned with the context of the conversation. If you are talking about a difficult or stressful situation you are coping with, your face should naturally show effort, resilience, or endurance. Make sure your thumb maintains gentle contact with your chin as it slides downward. The movement should be deliberate and steady, reflecting the ongoing nature of coping with a challenge.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using the wrong handshape, such as a flat hand or an 'S' handshape where the thumb is wrapped across the front of the fingers. Ensure you use a clear 'A' handshape with the thumb resting alongside the index finger. Another frequent error is pulling the hand away from the face too early or just tapping the chin. The thumb must actually drag downward along the chin to properly convey the meaning of enduring or coping.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Cope" in a Sentence
1

I am trying to cope with the stress.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I', sign 'try', and then use the sign for 'cope' by dragging your 'A' handshape down your chin, followed by the sign for 'stress'.

2

She copes well with changes.

Start by pointing to the person for 'she', then use the 'cope' sign on your chin. Follow this up with the signs for 'good' and 'change' to complete the thought.

3

How do you cope?

Point to the person you are asking for 'you', sign 'cope', and then sign 'how'. Remember to furrow your eyebrows at the end to indicate a 'wh-' question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'cope' the same as 'patience'?

Yes, in ASL, the concept of coping is often expressed using the exact same sign as 'patience' or 'endure.' The context of your sentence and your facial expressions will make it clear which English word you mean.

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

You only use one hand for this sign. Use your dominant hand to form the 'A' handshape and drag it down your chin. Your non-dominant hand can rest at your side.

Can I use the sign for 'manage' instead?

While 'manage' (using two 'X' handshapes moving back and forth) can sometimes translate to 'cope' in the sense of handling a situation or controlling it, the sign shown here emphasizes the emotional resilience and bearing of a burden.

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