How to Sign "Damage"

Start with both hands in 'S' shapes (fists) in front of your chest, with your dominant hand slightly above and closer to your body. Slide your dominant hand forward and down, brushing past your non-dominant hand. As your dominant hand moves forward, twist both wrists so that your palms end up facing upward.

Examples Using "Damage" in a Sentence

1

The storm caused a lot of damage.

Sign 'storm', then 'damage', using a serious facial expression to convey the severity of the situation.

2

Did you damage my car?

Point to the person, sign 'damage', then 'my car', while raising your eyebrows and leaning forward to ask a yes/no question.

3

The water damage is severe.

Sign 'water', then 'damage', and use an intense facial expression or a sign like 'bad' to emphasize how severe it is.

How to Sign "Damage"
Start with both hands in 'S' shapes (fists) in front of your chest, with your dominant hand slightly above and closer to your body. Slide your dominant hand forward and down, brushing past your non-dominant hand. As your dominant hand moves forward, twist both wrists so that your palms end up facing upward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents taking something whole and forcefully twisting or breaking it apart. The brushing and twisting motion symbolizes the act of ruining, crushing, or causing destruction.
Signing Tips
Make sure the movement is sharp and deliberate to convey the meaning of something being broken or ruined. The brushing motion between your hands should be clear, and the final twist of the wrists adds emphasis to the concept of destruction.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is forgetting to twist the wrists at the end of the sign, which can make the movement look vague. Additionally, beginners sometimes use open hands instead of keeping them in tight 'S' shapes (fists).
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Damage" in a Sentence
1

The storm caused a lot of damage.

Sign 'storm', then 'damage', using a serious facial expression to convey the severity of the situation.

2

Did you damage my car?

Point to the person, sign 'damage', then 'my car', while raising your eyebrows and leaning forward to ask a yes/no question.

3

The water damage is severe.

Sign 'water', then 'damage', and use an intense facial expression or a sign like 'bad' to emphasize how severe it is.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'destroy'?

Yes, 'damage' and 'destroy' use the same sign. However, when signing 'destroy', you might use a larger, more forceful movement and an intense facial expression to show complete ruin.

Does it matter which hand moves?

Yes, your dominant hand should be the one moving forward and doing the brushing action. Your non-dominant hand acts as the base and stays relatively stationary.

Should my hands touch during the sign?

Yes, your dominant hand should brush against your non-dominant hand as it moves forward. This physical contact helps emphasize the impact and the concept of damage.

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