Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Errand"

To sign 'errand', start by holding both hands in front of your body with your palms facing upward. Extend your index fingers and thumbs so they are open, while keeping your middle, ring, and pinky fingers curled comfortably into your palms. Finally, repeatedly pinch your index fingers and thumbs together in a quick, tapping motion.

Examples Using "Errand" in a Sentence

1

I have to run some errands today.

Start by signing 'today' to establish the timeframe, followed by 'I' and 'must'. Then, use the sign for 'errand' to clearly show that you have various tasks or chores to complete before the day is over.

2

Are you finished with your errands?

Begin by pointing to the person to sign 'you', then sign 'finish' and 'errand'. Since this is a yes-or-no question, remember to keep your eyebrows raised and lean forward slightly while signing to prompt a response.

3

I hate doing errands on the weekend.

Establish the time first by signing 'weekend', then sign 'errand'. Follow this up with 'I' and 'hate'. Make sure to use a strong facial expression when signing 'hate' to truly convey your dislike for doing chores on your days off.

How to Sign "Errand"
To sign 'errand', start by holding both hands in front of your body with your palms facing upward. Extend your index fingers and thumbs so they are open, while keeping your middle, ring, and pinky fingers curled comfortably into your palms. Finally, repeatedly pinch your index fingers and thumbs together in a quick, tapping motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is visually and conceptually rooted in the standard ASL sign for 'do'. By taking the base sign for 'do' and repeating the pinching motion, the sign naturally conveys the idea of doing multiple tasks, chores, or activities in succession. This repetition perfectly captures the concept of running various errands or having a busy to-do list. In ASL, repeating a verb often indicates an ongoing or plural action, which is exactly how 'do' transforms into 'errands'.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'errand', focus on keeping your palms facing upward throughout the entire movement. The motion should come from your fingers rather than your wrists or arms. Aim for a quick, repeated tapping of the index fingers and thumbs, keeping the motion relaxed but deliberate. This repetition is key to showing that there are multiple ongoing tasks. Practice in a mirror to ensure your other fingers remain neatly curled and don't interfere with the pinching movement.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make with this sign is turning their palms to face each other or pointing them downwards, which can confuse the meaning. Another frequent error is using all of the fingers to pinch together in a 'flat O' handshape, rather than isolating just the index finger and thumb. Make sure you are only tapping the index finger and thumb, and remember to repeat the motion; doing it only once changes the meaning entirely.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Errand" in a Sentence
1

I have to run some errands today.

Start by signing 'today' to establish the timeframe, followed by 'I' and 'must'. Then, use the sign for 'errand' to clearly show that you have various tasks or chores to complete before the day is over.

2

Are you finished with your errands?

Begin by pointing to the person to sign 'you', then sign 'finish' and 'errand'. Since this is a yes-or-no question, remember to keep your eyebrows raised and lean forward slightly while signing to prompt a response.

3

I hate doing errands on the weekend.

Establish the time first by signing 'weekend', then sign 'errand'. Follow this up with 'I' and 'hate'. Make sure to use a strong facial expression when signing 'hate' to truly convey your dislike for doing chores on your days off.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the exact same sign as 'do'?

Yes, this sign is essentially the repeated version of 'do'. While a single motion often just means 'do', repeating the movement translates to 'errands', 'chores', or 'what to do'. The exact meaning depends heavily on the context of your sentence and your facial expression.

Do I always need to use both hands for this sign?

Yes, 'errand' is a two-handed sign and should be signed symmetrically. Using both hands is important for grammatical accuracy and helps visually convey the idea of juggling multiple tasks or having a busy schedule. Dropping one hand might make the sign look sloppy or unclear.

How do I show that I have a lot of errands to run?

You can easily emphasize the sign by making the pinching motion slightly larger, faster, or repeating it more times than usual. Pairing this with a stressed facial expression, such as puffed cheeks or a slight sigh, will clearly show that you are overwhelmed with many tasks.

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