Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Forget"

To sign 'forget', start with a flat hand on the forehead, with the thumb pointed up. Place the hand over the eyebrow on the non-dominant side. Drag the hand to the other side of the forehead, curling in the fingers as you move the hand until they're against the palm.

Examples Using "Forget" in a Sentence

1

I forgot my keys.

Point to yourself for 'I', then perform the 'forget' sign by wiping your flat hand across your forehead and curling your fingers. Finish by signing 'my' and 'keys'.

2

Please don't forget!

Sign 'please', then shake your head slightly while signing 'forget'. The negative headshake combined with the wiping motion across your forehead clearly communicates 'do not forget'.

3

Did you forget?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'forget' by dragging your hand across your forehead, and keep your eyebrows raised the entire time to show you are asking a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Forget"
To sign 'forget', start with a flat hand on the forehead, with the thumb pointed up. Place the hand over the eyebrow on the non-dominant side. Drag the hand to the other side of the forehead, curling in the fingers as you move the hand until they're against the palm.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually represents the concept of a memory being wiped away. The forehead is the standard ASL location for signs related to the mind and thinking. The open hand represents a thought, and as you drag it across your forehead and close your fingers, it symbolizes grasping that memory and pulling it completely out of your brain.
Signing Tips
For a natural-looking sign, focus on making the movement fluid. Start with a relaxed, flat hand on the non-dominant side of your forehead. As you drag it across to the dominant side, curl your fingers in smoothly. By the time your hand reaches the edge of your forehead, it should form an 'A' handshape (a fist with the thumb pointing up). Keep the contact with your forehead light and continuous.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often pull their hand away from their forehead too early, before the fingers have fully curled. Make sure your hand maintains light contact with your forehead throughout the entire dragging motion. Another mistake is forgetting to curl the fingers at all; the transition from a flat hand to a closed fist is crucial for the sign to be understood correctly.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Forget" in a Sentence
1

I forgot my keys.

Point to yourself for 'I', then perform the 'forget' sign by wiping your flat hand across your forehead and curling your fingers. Finish by signing 'my' and 'keys'.

2

Please don't forget!

Sign 'please', then shake your head slightly while signing 'forget'. The negative headshake combined with the wiping motion across your forehead clearly communicates 'do not forget'.

3

Did you forget?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'forget' by dragging your hand across your forehead, and keep your eyebrows raised the entire time to show you are asking a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Which hand should I use to sign 'forget'?

Always use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, start the flat hand on the left side of your forehead and drag it over to the right side, curling your fingers as you go.

Does my hand need to physically touch my forehead?

Yes, your fingers should lightly touch or graze your forehead as you make the wiping motion. Avoid pressing too hard; a gentle, continuous sweep is perfect.

What handshape should I end with?

As your hand reaches the other side of your forehead, your fingers should be fully curled against your palm, ending in an 'A' handshape with your thumb pointing up.

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