How to Sign "Game"

Both hands should be in the "A" handshape with the thumbs fully extended, palms facing the body on both hands at a comfortable height between the shoulder and elbow. Bring the hands gently together with a couple of taps as if fist bumping yourself.

Examples Using "Game" in a Sentence

1

Do you want to play a game?

To sign this, point to the person for 'you', sign 'want', 'play', and then 'game' by tapping your extended-thumb 'A' hands together twice. Don't forget to raise your eyebrows since this is a yes/no question!

2

My favorite game is chess.

Sign 'my', 'favorite', and then 'game' by bringing your knuckles together for a gentle fist bump. Finish by fingerspelling C-H-E-S-S. Keep your palms facing your body during the sign for 'game'.

3

The basketball game was fun.

Sign 'basketball', 'game', and 'fun'. When transitioning from 'basketball' to 'game', smoothly change your handshapes into the 'A' shape with extended thumbs, bringing them together for two quick, light taps in front of your chest.

How to Sign "Game"
Both hands should be in the "A" handshape with the thumbs fully extended, palms facing the body on both hands at a comfortable height between the shoulder and elbow. Bring the hands gently together with a couple of taps as if fist bumping yourself.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'game' is highly iconic and visually represents competition. The two hands symbolize two opposing players, teams, or forces coming together to compete. The tapping motion mimics the idea of two competitors clashing or butting heads in a contest, much like the memory hint of two moose locking horns. The repeated, gentle tapping shows the ongoing, playful nature of a game.
Signing Tips
To sign 'game' clearly, make sure you are using the 'A' handshape with your thumbs fully extended, similar to a 'thumbs up'. Keep your shoulders and elbows relaxed, bringing your hands together in the center of your chest. The movement should be a light, bouncy double-tap of your knuckles, not a forceful crash. Remember to keep your palms facing your own body throughout the entire sign.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make is crashing their fists together too hard. The sign for 'game' only requires a gentle, double tap. Another frequent error is changing the palm orientation so the palms face the floor or the ceiling; your palms must face your body. Finally, make sure your thumbs remain fully extended upward rather than tucked in.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Game" in a Sentence
1

Do you want to play a game?

To sign this, point to the person for 'you', sign 'want', 'play', and then 'game' by tapping your extended-thumb 'A' hands together twice. Don't forget to raise your eyebrows since this is a yes/no question!

2

My favorite game is chess.

Sign 'my', 'favorite', and then 'game' by bringing your knuckles together for a gentle fist bump. Finish by fingerspelling C-H-E-S-S. Keep your palms facing your body during the sign for 'game'.

3

The basketball game was fun.

Sign 'basketball', 'game', and 'fun'. When transitioning from 'basketball' to 'game', smoothly change your handshapes into the 'A' shape with extended thumbs, bringing them together for two quick, light taps in front of your chest.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for video games and board games?

Yes! This is a versatile, general sign for any type of game, including sports, board games, and playground games. However, for 'video game', you will also frequently see signers mime holding and pressing buttons on a video game controller.

What is the difference between 'game' and 'challenge'?

Both words use the exact same handshape and palm orientation. The difference is in the movement. 'Game' uses a gentle, repeated tapping motion. 'Challenge' uses a single, forceful strike where the fists hit each other and often move slightly upward.

Do my hands need to touch completely?

Yes, the knuckles of your 'A' hands should physically touch each other. It should feel like you are giving yourself a gentle, two-handed fist bump. Just be sure to keep the contact light so you don't hurt your knuckles!

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