How to Sign "For"
Place your hand in the “D’ handshape, you are going to place it in front of your forehead, lightly tap your forehead and bring your finger outwards.
Examples Using "For" in a Sentence
1
This gift is for you.
Point to the gift, sign "for" by tapping your forehead with your "D" handshape and moving it outward, then point to the person receiving the gift.
2
What is that for?
Point to the object in question, sign "for" by bringing your "D" handshape from your forehead outward, and furrow your eyebrows to show you are asking a "wh-" question.
3
I am waiting for my friend.
Sign "I", then "wait", then sign "for" by starting the "D" handshape at your forehead and moving it outward, followed by the sign for "friend".
How to Sign "For"
Place your hand in the “D’ handshape, you are going to place it in front of your forehead, lightly tap your forehead and bring your finger outwards.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "for" originates at the head, which represents the mind, thoughts, or intentions in ASL. By starting the "D" handshape at the forehead and directing it outward, the sign visually represents taking a thought or purpose and directing it toward a specific objective.
Signing Tips
Make sure to use a clear "D" handshape, keeping your index finger pointing straight up while your middle, ring, and pinky fingers touch your thumb to form a circle. The motion should be a single, smooth movement starting with a gentle tap on your forehead and moving forward. Keep your palm facing your non-dominant side throughout the sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a "1" handshape (where the fingers curl tightly into the palm) instead of the correct "D" handshape. Beginners also sometimes twist their wrist as they move their hand outward. Make sure to keep your palm orientation steady as you pull your hand away from your forehead.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "For" in a Sentence
1This gift is for you.
Point to the gift, sign "for" by tapping your forehead with your "D" handshape and moving it outward, then point to the person receiving the gift.
2What is that for?
Point to the object in question, sign "for" by bringing your "D" handshape from your forehead outward, and furrow your eyebrows to show you are asking a "wh-" question.
3I am waiting for my friend.
Sign "I", then "wait", then sign "for" by starting the "D" handshape at your forehead and moving it outward, followed by the sign for "friend".
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which side of my forehead I tap?
Yes, you should use your dominant hand and tap the corresponding side of your forehead. If you are right-handed, use your right hand and tap the right side of your forehead before moving outward.
Is "for" the same sign as "what for"?
They are very similar, but "what for" (which often means "why") is usually signed by doing the "for" motion twice quickly while furrowing your eyebrows. The standard sign for "for" uses just a single outward motion.
What is the difference between the "D" handshape and the "1" handshape?
For the "D" handshape, your middle, ring, and pinky fingers curve to touch your thumb, forming an open circle, while the index finger points up. In a "1" handshape, the fingers curl tightly into the palm. Always use the "D" handshape for this sign.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!