Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Finally"

To sign 'finally,' start with both hands in '1' handshapes (index fingers extended) near your chest or shoulders, with your palms facing toward you. Twist your hands outward and upward in a quick, deliberate motion so that your index fingers point straight up to the ceiling and your palms face forward. This sign is almost always accompanied by the mouth movement 'pah,' which emphasizes the feeling of 'at last!'

Examples Using "Finally" in a Sentence

1

I finally finished my homework.

Sign 'finally' at the beginning of the sentence to show relief, then sign 'finish', 'my', and 'homework'. The strong upward motion of 'finally' sets the tone of accomplishment for the whole sentence.

2

Finally, it's Friday!

Use an enthusiastic facial expression while signing 'finally', followed by 'Friday'. Make sure your palms snap forward crisply to emphasize that you have been eagerly waiting for the weekend all week long.

3

We finally arrived.

Sign 'we', 'finally', and 'arrive'. When you sign 'finally', be sure to mouth 'pah' to show that the journey felt long and you are incredibly glad that it is over.

How to Sign "Finally"
To sign 'finally,' start with both hands in '1' handshapes (index fingers extended) near your chest or shoulders, with your palms facing toward you. Twist your hands outward and upward in a quick, deliberate motion so that your index fingers point straight up to the ceiling and your palms face forward. This sign is almost always accompanied by the mouth movement 'pah,' which emphasizes the feeling of 'at last!'
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'finally' visually represents a sudden breakthrough, realization, or victory. The upward and outward twisting motion of the index fingers mimics something coming to light or popping up successfully. The accompanying 'pah' mouth movement is a well-known ASL morpheme specifically tied to the concept of sudden success.
Signing Tips
A crucial part of signing 'finally' is the mouth morpheme. As you twist your hands outward, mouth the word 'pah' (without using your voice). This facial expression adds the necessary grammatical meaning of 'at last' or 'success.' Make the twisting motion crisp and deliberate to convey a true sense of relief or accomplishment.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is forgetting the 'pah' mouth movement or keeping a completely neutral facial expression, which makes the sign look robotic and lose its emotional impact. Another mistake is pointing the index fingers forward instead of straight up; ensure your fingers point toward the ceiling at the end.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Finally" in a Sentence
1

I finally finished my homework.

Sign 'finally' at the beginning of the sentence to show relief, then sign 'finish', 'my', and 'homework'. The strong upward motion of 'finally' sets the tone of accomplishment for the whole sentence.

2

Finally, it's Friday!

Use an enthusiastic facial expression while signing 'finally', followed by 'Friday'. Make sure your palms snap forward crisply to emphasize that you have been eagerly waiting for the weekend all week long.

3

We finally arrived.

Sign 'we', 'finally', and 'arrive'. When you sign 'finally', be sure to mouth 'pah' to show that the journey felt long and you are incredibly glad that it is over.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to mouth 'pah' when signing finally?

Yes! In ASL, the 'pah' mouth movement is an essential morpheme for this sign. It conveys the feeling of 'at last' or 'success.' Without it, the sign feels incomplete and lacks the proper emotional tone.

Can this sign mean 'success' or 'succeed'?

Yes, 'finally' and 'succeed' use the exact same ASL sign. The context of your sentence and your facial expressions will help the person you are signing with understand which English concept you mean.

What handshape is used for this sign?

You use the '1' handshape for both hands. This means your index fingers are extended straight out while your thumb wraps over your curled middle, ring, and pinky fingers.

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