How to Sign "Fantasy"

To sign 'fantasy', form both hands into '4' handshapes with your fingers spread apart. Place them near the sides of your forehead with your palms facing each other. Move both hands upward and outward away from your head while wiggling your fingers.

Examples Using "Fantasy" in a Sentence

1

I love reading fantasy books.

Sign 'I', 'love', 'read', followed by the sign for 'fantasy', and then 'book'.

2

That is just a fantasy.

Point to the concept or sign 'that', then use the sign for 'fantasy' to show it is not reality.

3

She has a wild fantasy.

Sign 'she', 'have', 'wild', and 'fantasy', using facial expressions to emphasize how elaborate the imagination is.

How to Sign "Fantasy"
To sign 'fantasy', form both hands into '4' handshapes with your fingers spread apart. Place them near the sides of your forehead with your palms facing each other. Move both hands upward and outward away from your head while wiggling your fingers.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents thoughts, ideas, or dreams flowing out of the mind. The location at the forehead connects the sign to the brain, while the outward movement and wiggling fingers illustrate the boundless and fluid nature of imagination.
Signing Tips
Keep your facial expressions engaged when signing 'fantasy'. If the fantasy is wild or exciting, let your eyes widen and your face show that enthusiasm. Ensure the fluttering motion of your fingers is smooth and continuous as your hands move away from your head.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is keeping the hands stationary while wiggling the fingers, or moving the hands without wiggling the fingers. Both the upward and outward movement and the finger fluttering are essential to convey the meaning of 'fantasy'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Fantasy" in a Sentence
1

I love reading fantasy books.

Sign 'I', 'love', 'read', followed by the sign for 'fantasy', and then 'book'.

2

That is just a fantasy.

Point to the concept or sign 'that', then use the sign for 'fantasy' to show it is not reality.

3

She has a wild fantasy.

Sign 'she', 'have', 'wild', and 'fantasy', using facial expressions to emphasize how elaborate the imagination is.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can this sign be used for 'imagine' or 'imagination'?

Yes, this sign is commonly used interchangeably for 'fantasy', 'imagine', 'imagination', and sometimes 'invent'. The context of your sentence will help clarify which English word you mean.

Does it matter how far I move my hands?

The distance can indicate the scale of the fantasy. A small, brief movement might mean a passing thought, while a larger, more exaggerated movement can describe a wild, elaborate fantasy.

Do my palms have to face each other?

Yes, starting with your palms facing each other or slightly angled toward your head is standard. As your hands move up and out, they naturally stay in that relative orientation.

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