How to Sign "Fate"

To sign *fate*, start with both hands in 'F' handshapes (index fingers and thumbs touching, with the other fingers extended) in front of you. Begin with your palms facing up and your extended fingers pointing forward. Then, simultaneously flip both hands over so that your palms end up facing down. The movement is quick and decisive, similar to the sign for *happen*.

Examples Using "Fate" in a Sentence

1

It was fate that we met.

Sign 'we meet' followed by the sign for 'fate' to express that the encounter was destined.

2

You can't fight your fate.

Sign 'fate', 'your', 'fight', and then 'can't' to convey that destiny is unavoidable.

3

Her fate is undecided.

Sign 'her', 'fate', and then 'not-yet decide' to explain that the outcome is still unknown.

How to Sign "Fate"
To sign *fate*, start with both hands in 'F' handshapes (index fingers and thumbs touching, with the other fingers extended) in front of you. Begin with your palms facing up and your extended fingers pointing forward. Then, simultaneously flip both hands over so that your palms end up facing down. The movement is quick and decisive, similar to the sign for *happen*.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the ASL sign for *happen*. It uses the 'F' handshape for the English word 'fate' while keeping the flipping motion that represents an event occurring or turning out a certain way.
Signing Tips
Make sure the flipping motion of your hands is crisp and simultaneous. The movement should look exactly like the sign for *happen*, just with 'F' handshapes instead of index fingers.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is rotating the hands outward instead of flipping them over. Ensure your palms start facing up and flip inward to face down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Fate" in a Sentence
1

It was fate that we met.

Sign 'we meet' followed by the sign for 'fate' to express that the encounter was destined.

2

You can't fight your fate.

Sign 'fate', 'your', 'fight', and then 'can't' to convey that destiny is unavoidable.

3

Her fate is undecided.

Sign 'her', 'fate', and then 'not-yet decide' to explain that the outcome is still unknown.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for *fate* the same as *happen*?

They are very similar! The movement is identical, but *fate* is an initialized sign that uses 'F' handshapes, whereas *happen* uses '1' (index finger) handshapes.

Can I use this sign for 'destiny'?

Yes, this sign is often used interchangeably for both 'fate' and 'destiny' in ASL, though some signers might initialize 'destiny' with 'D' handshapes.

Do I need to mouth the word 'fate' while signing?

It is not strictly required, but mouthing the word can help clarify your meaning, especially since initialized signs borrow directly from English.

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