How to Sign "Development"

Form a flat shape with your non-dominant hand, palm facing sideways and fingers pointing forward and slightly up. With your dominant hand, form the ASL letter 'D' (index finger pointing up, thumb and other fingers touching). Place the side of your 'D' hand near the base of your non-dominant hand, then slide it upward along the palm toward the fingertips.

Examples Using "Development" in a Sentence

1

The city's development is moving fast.

Sign 'city', then sign 'development' by sliding your 'D' hand up your flat non-dominant hand, followed by the sign for 'fast'.

2

Child development is an interesting topic.

Sign 'child', then 'development' using the upward sliding motion of the 'D' hand along your non-dominant palm, and finish with 'interesting'.

3

We need a new development plan.

Sign 'we', 'need', 'new', then sign 'development' by moving your 'D' hand up your non-dominant hand, and finally sign 'plan'.

How to Sign "Development"
Form a flat shape with your non-dominant hand, palm facing sideways and fingers pointing forward and slightly up. With your dominant hand, form the ASL letter 'D' (index finger pointing up, thumb and other fingers touching). Place the side of your 'D' hand near the base of your non-dominant hand, then slide it upward along the palm toward the fingertips.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the sign for 'improve' or 'grow'. The upward movement along the non-dominant hand visually represents something rising, progressing, or building up over time, while the 'D' handshape specifies the English word 'development'.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand steady as a base. The upward movement of your dominant 'D' hand should be smooth and deliberate, representing growth or progress. Make sure your index finger stays clearly extended to distinguish the 'D' handshape.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a flat hand or an 'A' handshape instead of the 'D' handshape for your dominant hand. Another mistake is moving the non-dominant hand instead of keeping it still as a stationary base.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Development" in a Sentence
1

The city's development is moving fast.

Sign 'city', then sign 'development' by sliding your 'D' hand up your flat non-dominant hand, followed by the sign for 'fast'.

2

Child development is an interesting topic.

Sign 'child', then 'development' using the upward sliding motion of the 'D' hand along your non-dominant palm, and finish with 'interesting'.

3

We need a new development plan.

Sign 'we', 'need', 'new', then sign 'development' by moving your 'D' hand up your non-dominant hand, and finally sign 'plan'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'develop' the same as 'development'?

Yes, in ASL, the same sign is typically used for both 'develop' and 'development'. The context of your sentence will make it clear which part of speech you mean.

Can I use this sign for developing a photograph?

No, developing a photograph uses a different sign that mimics the action of sliding a photo into chemical baths. This sign is used for abstract growth, progress, or building development.

Does my dominant hand have to touch my non-dominant hand?

Yes, your dominant 'D' hand should lightly touch and slide up the palm or side of your non-dominant hand to clearly show the upward progression.

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