How to Sign "Emotion"
Form both hands into "E" handshapes, with your fingers curled inward and your thumbs resting across them. Place both hands on your chest. Move them in alternating, continuous circles, bringing each hand up, outward, down, and back toward your chest.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "emotion" is an initialized version of the sign for "feel." Both signs are placed on the chest, which represents the center of feelings and internal states. The "E" handshape specifies the English word, while the continuous, swirling motion represents the churning nature of feelings inside us.
Signing Tips
Keep the movement alternating; as one hand moves up and out, the other should be moving down and in. Ensure your facial expressions match the specific emotion you are discussing, as ASL relies heavily on the face to convey the tone and intensity of feelings.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake is moving both hands in unison rather than in alternating circles. Another common error is using flat hands instead of the "E" handshape, which changes the sign entirely. Beginners also sometimes forget to incorporate facial expressions, leaving the sign looking robotic.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Emotion" in a Sentence
1I have mixed emotions about moving.
Sign "emotion" while using a facial expression that conveys uncertainty or conflicting feelings to match the context of the sentence.
2Music helps me express my emotions.
Use the sign for "emotion" after signing "music" and "express," ensuring your alternating circular chest movements are smooth and continuous.
3He hides his emotions well.
Sign "hide" followed by "emotion," perhaps making the circles slightly smaller or more subdued to reflect the concept of keeping feelings contained.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'emotion' and 'feel' in ASL?
Both signs are located on the chest, but 'feel' uses an open hand with the middle finger extended inward, swiping up once or twice. 'Emotion' uses two 'E' handshapes moving in alternating circles.
Do I need to physically touch my chest while signing 'emotion'?
Yes, your knuckles or the back of your curled fingers should lightly brush against your chest as you make the alternating circular motions to properly execute the sign.
Can I sign 'emotion' with just one hand?
While casual signing sometimes drops a hand for convenience, 'emotion' is traditionally a two-handed sign. Using both hands is recommended for beginners and helps emphasize the depth of the feelings being expressed.
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