How to Sign "Eyes"
48. Eyes- To sign “Eyes”, Using your dominant extend finger pointing to your one of your eyes then same extend finger move to point to another eye. The sign is a usually two eyes are set in the place
Examples Using "Eyes" in a Sentence
1
My eyes are tired.
To sign this, use your dominant index finger to point to one eye and then the other to sign 'eyes', followed by the sign for 'tired' at your chest.
2
She has blue eyes.
First, point to the person you are talking about. Then sign 'blue' by shaking a 'B' handshape, and finally sign 'eyes' by pointing to each of your eyes with your index finger.
3
Look into my eyes.
Sign 'look' by making a 'V' handshape and bringing it toward your face, then sign 'eyes' by pointing your dominant index finger to your right eye and then your left eye.
How to Sign "Eyes"
48. Eyes- To sign “Eyes”, Using your dominant extend finger pointing to your one of your eyes then same extend finger move to point to another eye. The sign is a usually two eyes are set in the place
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'eyes' is highly iconic, meaning its visual form directly mirrors the concept it represents. By simply using your index finger to point to one eye and then the other, you are physically highlighting the location of the eyes on the human face. This type of pointing is common in ASL for body parts, making it very intuitive for beginners to learn and remember.
Signing Tips
When signing 'eyes', keep the movement smooth and natural. You don't need to actually touch your face; hovering your index finger just an inch or two away from your eyes is perfect. Make sure your other fingers are tucked away neatly into a fist so the pointing gesture is clear. It is best to start with the eye on the same side as your dominant hand, then smoothly arc your finger over to the other eye.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is physically poking themselves or getting uncomfortably close to their face. Remember to leave a small, safe gap between your finger and your eye. Another frequent error is using two hands to point at both eyes simultaneously. While this might feel intuitive, the standard ASL sign relies on using just your dominant hand to point to one eye and then the other in a fluid motion.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Eyes" in a Sentence
1My eyes are tired.
To sign this, use your dominant index finger to point to one eye and then the other to sign 'eyes', followed by the sign for 'tired' at your chest.
2She has blue eyes.
First, point to the person you are talking about. Then sign 'blue' by shaking a 'B' handshape, and finally sign 'eyes' by pointing to each of your eyes with your index finger.
3Look into my eyes.
Sign 'look' by making a 'V' handshape and bringing it toward your face, then sign 'eyes' by pointing your dominant index finger to your right eye and then your left eye.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to touch my face when signing 'eyes'?
No, you don't need to make physical contact. Simply point your index finger close to one eye and then move it to point near the other eye. Hovering just a bit away from your face is the standard and safest way to sign it.
Does it matter which eye I point to first?
It generally doesn't matter, but most signers naturally point to the eye on the same side as their dominant hand first, then move across to the other eye. Just keep the motion fluid and relaxed.
Can I use both hands to point at my eyes at the same time?
While people will understand you, the standard ASL sign uses only your dominant hand. Using one index finger to point to one eye and then the other is the most natural and grammatically correct way to sign 'eyes'.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!