How to Sign "Formal"

To sign 'formal', form a flat handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers together and extending your thumb. Place the tip of your thumb against the center of your chest. Brush your hand upward along your chest in a smooth motion. This upward brushing movement is typically repeated twice.

Examples Using "Formal" in a Sentence

1

We need to wear formal clothes to the wedding.

Sign 'formal' followed by 'clothes' to indicate the specific type of attire required for the event.

2

The dinner party tonight is very formal.

Use the sign for 'formal' to describe the nature of the event, using a composed facial expression to match the tone.

3

Please be polite and formal during the interview.

Since 'formal' and 'polite' share the same sign, you can use this sign to convey both a respectful attitude and a professional demeanor.

How to Sign "Formal"
To sign 'formal', form a flat handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers together and extending your thumb. Place the tip of your thumb against the center of your chest. Brush your hand upward along your chest in a smooth motion. This upward brushing movement is typically repeated twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'formal' visually suggests the idea of being 'buttoned up' or wearing a fancy ruffled shirt or tie that extends up the chest. The upward brushing motion evokes the feeling of standing tall, presenting oneself well, and adhering to high standards of etiquette.
Signing Tips
Keep your fingers straight and close together, ensuring that only the tip of your thumb makes contact with your chest. The movement should be a light, upward brushing motion rather than a heavy scrape. Maintain a composed posture to reflect the concept of formality.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the entire palm to rub the chest instead of just the thumb. Another frequent error is moving the hand downward or side-to-side; remember that the correct motion is strictly upward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Formal" in a Sentence
1

We need to wear formal clothes to the wedding.

Sign 'formal' followed by 'clothes' to indicate the specific type of attire required for the event.

2

The dinner party tonight is very formal.

Use the sign for 'formal' to describe the nature of the event, using a composed facial expression to match the tone.

3

Please be polite and formal during the interview.

Since 'formal' and 'polite' share the same sign, you can use this sign to convey both a respectful attitude and a professional demeanor.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign mean anything else besides 'formal'?

Yes, this exact same sign is also commonly used to mean 'polite' or 'fancy'. The specific meaning is usually clear based on the context of your sentence.

How many times should I brush my hand upward?

Typically, the upward brushing motion is repeated twice. However, in fast conversation or when emphasizing a point, it might be done with a single, deliberate upward stroke.

Do I use one hand or two hands for this sign?

This sign is performed using only your dominant hand. Your non-dominant hand should simply rest comfortably at your side.

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