How to Sign "Dont Worry"
To sign 'don't worry,' start by bringing both hands to your chest in an open '8' handshape, where your fingers are spread and your middle fingers are bent slightly inward. Gently brush your middle fingers upward on your chest to indicate the concept of concern or feelings. Then, transition smoothly by moving your dominant hand forward and slightly down in a gentle, dismissive wave. This motion looks like you are physically brushing the concern away. Keep your facial expression reassuring throughout.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase is beautifully constructed from two distinct visual concepts in ASL. The first part utilizes the open '8' handshape touching the chest, which is the foundational root for many signs related to internal feelings, sensitivity, and emotional concern. The second part of the sign is a highly iconic, natural gesture of waving something away. Together, they create a literal visual metaphor: taking the internal feeling of concern and physically brushing it away from yourself or the other person.
Signing Tips
Focus on the smooth transition between the two distinct parts of this sign. The first part, representing concern, should be relatively brief, while the second part—the dismissive wave—carries the main reassuring meaning of the phrase. Your facial expression is absolutely crucial here. Make sure your face shifts from a brief look of empathy or concern to a relaxed, comforting smile. This visual shift matches the meaning of letting go of anxiety and helps convey your reassuring tone effectively.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake for beginners is forgetting to incorporate the appropriate facial expression, which can make the sign look robotic or overly serious. If you don't look reassuring, the dismissive wave might come across as rude or uncaring rather than comforting. Additionally, pay close attention to your handshape during the first half of the sign. Make sure you are using the open '8' handshape with only your middle fingers bent inward, rather than using flat palms against your chest.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Dont Worry" in a Sentence
1Don't worry about the test tomorrow.
Sign 'don't worry' followed by the signs for 'tomorrow' and 'test.' Make sure to keep a reassuring facial expression to comfort the person you are talking to and show them they will do well.
2I'm running late, but don't worry!
Use the 'don't worry' sign as a transition to reassure the person that your lateness isn't a big deal. The dismissive wave at the end helps emphasize that they shouldn't stress about the delay.
3Don't worry, everything will be fine.
Emphasize the dismissive wave at the end of 'don't worry' to strongly project confidence. Pair this with a warm, comforting smile to visually reinforce that the situation is under control and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use the dismissive wave to mean 'don't worry'?
Yes! In casual conversation, a simple dismissive wave with a reassuring smile is often used on its own to mean 'don't worry about it' or 'never mind.' Adding the 'concern' part at the beginning just makes the phrase more explicit.
What handshape is used on the chest?
It is known as the open '8' handshape. Your hand is open with your fingers spread apart, but your middle finger is bent inward to touch your chest. This specific handshape is commonly used in ASL for signs related to feelings, sickness, and emotions.
Do I need to use both hands for the first part?
Yes, in this specific variation, both hands brush upward on the chest to show 'concern' or 'feelings.' After that, only your dominant hand moves forward into the dismissive wave to complete the phrase.
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