Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Hate"

the sign 'hate' is a two handed sign. the two hands will move at the same time, so with the dominant and non-dominant hands, press the middle finger and thumbs together to create the 8 hand shape. starting with the hands towards the chest, move the hands outwards and flick the fingers once. as you move the hands, make a facial expression of disgust.

Examples Using "Hate" in a Sentence

1

I hate eating broccoli.

Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'hate' by flicking your middle fingers outward from your chest with a disgusted face, followed by the signs for 'eat' and 'broccoli'.

2

She hates the cold weather.

Point to your right for 'she', sign 'hate' using the outward flicking motion of the '8' handshapes with a strong facial expression, then sign 'cold' and 'weather'.

3

Do you hate scary movies?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'hate' with both hands flicking outward while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question, then sign 'scary' and 'movie'.

How to Sign "Hate"
the sign 'hate' is a two handed sign. the two hands will move at the same time, so with the dominant and non-dominant hands, press the middle finger and thumbs together to create the 8 hand shape. starting with the hands towards the chest, move the hands outwards and flick the fingers once. as you move the hands, make a facial expression of disgust.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'hate' is highly iconic and visually represents the act of flicking something away from yourself in disgust. By starting near the chest, where feelings and emotions are often localized in ASL, and sharply flicking the middle fingers outward, you are metaphorically flicking away something vile or unwanted.
Signing Tips
To make the sign for 'hate' look natural, your facial expression is just as important as your hands. Make sure to scrunch your face into a look of disgust or strong dislike as you flick your fingers outward. The flicking motion should be sharp and decisive, moving away from your body to visually push the disliked thing away. Keep your movements synchronized so both hands flick at the exact same time.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is forgetting the facial expression. Without a disgusted look, the sign loses its emotional weight and meaning. Another frequent error is flicking the index fingers instead of the middle fingers. Make sure you are using the '8' handshape by pressing your middle fingers and thumbs together before the flick. Finally, avoid flicking the hands inward or upward; the motion must be directed outward, away from your chest.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hate" in a Sentence
1

I hate eating broccoli.

Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'hate' by flicking your middle fingers outward from your chest with a disgusted face, followed by the signs for 'eat' and 'broccoli'.

2

She hates the cold weather.

Point to your right for 'she', sign 'hate' using the outward flicking motion of the '8' handshapes with a strong facial expression, then sign 'cold' and 'weather'.

3

Do you hate scary movies?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'hate' with both hands flicking outward while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question, then sign 'scary' and 'movie'.

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

Yes, the standard sign for 'hate' uses both hands moving simultaneously. While you might occasionally see someone use one hand in very casual, rapid signing, using both hands is the correct and most clearly understood method for beginners.

Why do I need to use my middle finger instead of my index finger?

Using the middle finger and thumb, known as the '8' handshape, is the specific requirement for this sign in ASL. Flicking the index fingers changes the handshape entirely and could lead to confusion or look like a completely different sign.

How strong should my facial expression be?

Your facial expression should match the intensity of the feeling. If you strongly hate something, your face should show deep disgust. If it is just a mild dislike, the expression can be slightly softer, but a negative facial expression is always required.

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