How to Sign "Gay"
to sign 'gay', create a fist with the dominant hand, leaving the index finger and thumb extended to create the g hand shape. bring the hand up and, with the palm facing in, tap both fingers against the chin.
Examples Using "Gay" in a Sentence
1
My brother is gay.
Sign 'my', then 'brother' by bringing an 'L' handshape from your forehead down to your non-dominant hand. Finally, sign 'gay' by tapping the 'G' handshape against your chin.
2
Are you gay?
Point to the person you are asking, sign 'gay' by tapping your chin with your 'G' handshape, and make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly, as this is a yes/no question.
3
He is a gay man.
Point to him, sign 'gay' using the 'G' handshape tapping the chin with the palm facing inward, and then sign 'man' by bringing an open hand from your forehead down to your chest.
How to Sign "Gay"
to sign 'gay', create a fist with the dominant hand, leaving the index finger and thumb extended to create the g hand shape. bring the hand up and, with the palm facing in, tap both fingers against the chin.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'gay' is an initialized sign, meaning it uses the first letter of the English word to represent the concept. It incorporates the 'G' handshape placed at the chin. In ASL, the chin and lower face area are often associated with identity, spoken words, and personal characteristics. Over time, this specific initialized placement became the standard, widely accepted sign within the Deaf LGBTQ+ community to express this identity.
Signing Tips
To sign 'gay' clearly, make sure your 'G' handshape is distinct. Your index finger and thumb should be parallel and pointing to the side, not pointing straight up like an 'L'. Keep your wrist relaxed as you bring your hand to your face. The tap against your chin should be light and deliberate, usually tapping twice. Ensure your palm is facing inward so the sides of your index finger and thumb make contact with your chin.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using the 'L' handshape instead of the 'G' handshape. Remember to keep your index finger and thumb parallel rather than at a wide 90-degree angle. Another common error is tapping the cheek or the side of the jaw instead of the front of the chin. Make sure the movement is centered directly on your chin and that your palm is facing inward, not downward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Gay" in a Sentence
1My brother is gay.
Sign 'my', then 'brother' by bringing an 'L' handshape from your forehead down to your non-dominant hand. Finally, sign 'gay' by tapping the 'G' handshape against your chin.
2Are you gay?
Point to the person you are asking, sign 'gay' by tapping your chin with your 'G' handshape, and make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly, as this is a yes/no question.
3He is a gay man.
Point to him, sign 'gay' using the 'G' handshape tapping the chin with the palm facing inward, and then sign 'man' by bringing an open hand from your forehead down to your chest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign mean 'happy' or 'homosexual'?
In modern ASL, tapping the 'G' handshape on the chin specifically translates to the sexual orientation 'gay'. If you want to express the emotion of being happy or joyful, you would use the standard sign for 'happy', which involves brushing flat hands upward on your chest.
How many times should I tap my chin?
Typically, you tap your chin twice with the 'G' handshape. A double tap is standard for many descriptive adjectives and nouns in ASL. Just keep the taps light, brisk, and natural, without using excessive force against your face.
Can I use this sign for 'lesbian' or the broader LGBTQ+ community?
While 'gay' is sometimes used as an umbrella term in English, ASL has specific signs for other identities. For example, 'lesbian' uses an 'L' handshape on the chin. It is always best to use the specific sign that matches the exact identity you are referring to.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!