How to Sign "Hands"

To sign this, begin by forming a flat handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers together. Place the fingertips of this hand gently against your chin with your palm facing toward you. Meanwhile, hold your non-dominant hand comfortably in front of your body, also flat, but with the palm facing upward. To complete the sign, bring your dominant hand smoothly down from your chin so that its palm rests directly on top of the open palm of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Hands" in a Sentence

1

Please wash your hands.

To sign this sentence, you would first sign 'wash' by rubbing your hands together, and then use this specific sign to clearly indicate that it is your hands that need cleaning. This helps clarify the exact meaning for the viewer.

2

My hands are very cold.

Start by pointing to yourself to indicate 'my', then use this sign to establish that you are talking about your hands. Finally, sign 'cold' by shivering with your fists to complete the thought.

3

He has large hands.

First, point to the person you are talking about. Then, perform this sign to introduce the topic of his hands. Afterward, use a descriptive classifier by moving your hands apart to show just how large they are.

How to Sign "Hands"
To sign this, begin by forming a flat handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers together. Place the fingertips of this hand gently against your chin with your palm facing toward you. Meanwhile, hold your non-dominant hand comfortably in front of your body, also flat, but with the palm facing upward. To complete the sign, bring your dominant hand smoothly down from your chin so that its palm rests directly on top of the open palm of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual logic of this sign relies on the use of open, flat handshapes to directly present and emphasize the hands themselves. By starting at the chin and bringing the dominant hand down to rest squarely on the non-dominant hand, the signer draws the viewer's attention directly to the palms and fingers, visually highlighting the physical hands.
Signing Tips
When practicing this sign, focus on keeping your fingers neatly closed and together on both hands. This gives the sign a clean, crisp appearance. Make sure your non-dominant hand remains steady and flat in front of you, acting as a solid, clear base for your dominant hand to land on. Keep your movements smooth and intentional, avoiding any rushed or jerky motions as you bring your hand down from your chin.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make is starting the dominant hand from the chest or hovering in the air rather than making clear contact with the chin first. Another frequent error is forgetting to use the non-dominant hand altogether, or failing to keep it flat and open to receive the dominant hand. Ensure both hands are actively involved to perform the sign accurately.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hands" in a Sentence
1

Please wash your hands.

To sign this sentence, you would first sign 'wash' by rubbing your hands together, and then use this specific sign to clearly indicate that it is your hands that need cleaning. This helps clarify the exact meaning for the viewer.

2

My hands are very cold.

Start by pointing to yourself to indicate 'my', then use this sign to establish that you are talking about your hands. Finally, sign 'cold' by shivering with your fists to complete the thought.

3

He has large hands.

First, point to the person you are talking about. Then, perform this sign to introduce the topic of his hands. Afterward, use a descriptive classifier by moving your hands apart to show just how large they are.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use both hands for this sign?

Yes, using both hands is essential for this sign. Your non-dominant hand plays a crucial role by acting as a stationary, upward-facing base, while your dominant hand performs the active downward movement from your chin to complete the sign properly.

Where exactly should the dominant hand start?

Your dominant hand should begin with the fingertips gently touching your chin. It is important to establish this starting position clearly before you begin the downward motion toward your non-dominant hand, as starting too low can change the meaning.

Should my fingers be spread apart or kept together?

You should keep your fingers closed and held tightly together on both hands. Using a flat, closed handshape rather than spreading your fingers apart ensures that the sign looks neat, accurate, and easy for others to understand.

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