How to Sign "Eliminate"

Start with your non-dominant hand in a '1' handshape, with the index finger pointing up in front of your chest. Bring your dominant hand to the non-dominant index finger as if grasping it. Then, pull your dominant hand back sharply over your dominant shoulder. As you pull back, form an 'A' handshape with your thumb pointing backward, mimicking the action of taking something and tossing it away behind you.

Examples Using "Eliminate" in a Sentence

1

We need to eliminate the errors in the report.

Use the sign for 'eliminate' to visually demonstrate taking the mistakes out of the document and discarding them completely.

2

The team was eliminated from the tournament.

Sign 'eliminate' to indicate that the team has been removed or tossed out of the ongoing competition.

3

Let's eliminate this option.

When discussing choices, use 'eliminate' to show that you are firmly discarding that specific possibility from consideration.

How to Sign "Eliminate"
Start with your non-dominant hand in a '1' handshape, with the index finger pointing up in front of your chest. Bring your dominant hand to the non-dominant index finger as if grasping it. Then, pull your dominant hand back sharply over your dominant shoulder. As you pull back, form an 'A' handshape with your thumb pointing backward, mimicking the action of taking something and tossing it away behind you.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'eliminate' is highly visual and conceptually grounded in the physical action of discarding something. The non-dominant hand acts as a placeholder or reference point for the object, idea, or person in question. By grabbing at it and tossing your dominant hand over your shoulder, you are literally pantomiming the act of taking something and throwing it away so it is no longer present.
Signing Tips
When signing 'eliminate,' focus on the crispness of your movement. Make the backward motion over your shoulder sharp and decisive to convey the finality of 'eliminating' something. Your facial expression should also reflect determination or finality, matching the tone of the conversation. Keep your non-dominant hand steady as a clear reference point before you make the removal motion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake for beginners is making the backward motion too soft or slow, which looks more like a casual gesture than the definitive action of eliminating something. Another error is forgetting to use the non-dominant hand as a reference point. Ensure your dominant hand moves crisply over your shoulder while the non-dominant hand stays clearly visible in front of you.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Eliminate" in a Sentence
1

We need to eliminate the errors in the report.

Use the sign for 'eliminate' to visually demonstrate taking the mistakes out of the document and discarding them completely.

2

The team was eliminated from the tournament.

Sign 'eliminate' to indicate that the team has been removed or tossed out of the ongoing competition.

3

Let's eliminate this option.

When discussing choices, use 'eliminate' to show that you are firmly discarding that specific possibility from consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for 'throw away' or 'discard'?

Yes, this sign is conceptually similar to 'throw away' or 'discard.' It is often used interchangeably when talking about getting rid of a physical object, an idea, or an option.

Does it matter which shoulder I toss my hand over?

Yes, you should always pull your hand back over your dominant shoulder. If you are right-handed, you will pull your right hand back over your right shoulder.

What does the non-dominant hand represent in this sign?

The non-dominant '1' handshape acts as a visual reference point. It represents the specific item, person, or option that is being targeted for removal or elimination.

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