How to Sign "Forever"
To sign 'forever', clench the hand into a fist with the index finger outstretched. Bend the arm at the elbow so the hand is near the shoulder. Use the index finger to draw a few large circles in the air.
Examples Using "Forever" in a Sentence
1
I will love you forever.
Sign 'I', 'love', 'you', and then perform the 'forever' sign by making large, smooth circles with your index finger near your shoulder to emphasize the endless nature of your love.
2
Are we going to wait forever?
Sign 'wait', then use your index finger to draw the circles for 'forever'. Be sure to furrow your eyebrows and use a slightly frustrated facial expression to indicate a question.
3
We are best friends forever.
Sign 'best', 'friend', and finish with the 'forever' sign. Keep the circular motion continuous to visually represent an unbreakable, lifelong bond.
How to Sign "Forever"
To sign 'forever', clench the hand into a fist with the index finger outstretched. Bend the arm at the elbow so the hand is near the shoulder. Use the index finger to draw a few large circles in the air.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign relies on the visual concept of a continuous, unending loop. The index finger drawing circles in the air represents time moving forward without a stopping point. Just as a circle has no beginning or end, the looping motion visually captures the abstract idea of eternity.
Signing Tips
Focus on creating a continuous, fluid motion. Keep your elbow relatively stationary while your forearm and wrist do the work to draw the circles. The circles should be distinct but flow smoothly into one another. Adding a sincere facial expression helps convey the emotional weight of the word.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the circles too small or rigid, which makes the sign look tense. Another frequent error is moving the entire arm from the shoulder instead of pivoting naturally from the elbow. Ensure your index finger is clearly extended with the other fingers tucked neatly away.
Regional Variations
While the circling index finger described here is widely used, you may also see a two-part variation in some regions where signers first draw the circle, then push a 'Y' handshape forward to emphasize the concept of eternity.
Examples Using "Forever" in a Sentence
1I will love you forever.
Sign 'I', 'love', 'you', and then perform the 'forever' sign by making large, smooth circles with your index finger near your shoulder to emphasize the endless nature of your love.
2Are we going to wait forever?
Sign 'wait', then use your index finger to draw the circles for 'forever'. Be sure to furrow your eyebrows and use a slightly frustrated facial expression to indicate a question.
3We are best friends forever.
Sign 'best', 'friend', and finish with the 'forever' sign. Keep the circular motion continuous to visually represent an unbreakable, lifelong bond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many circles should I draw?
Typically, two to three continuous circles are perfect. The exact number isn't as important as the smooth, unending quality of the movement, which is what truly conveys the meaning of eternity.
Is this sign the same as 'always'?
Yes, the motion of drawing circles with your index finger near your shoulder is also the standard sign for 'always.' In ASL, the concepts of 'always' and 'forever' are closely related and often share this exact sign.
Which direction should the circles go?
If you are right-handed, the circles generally move inward toward your face at the top of the loop and outward at the bottom. The most important factor is keeping the motion comfortable, natural, and continuous.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!