How to Sign "Hi"
To make the sign hi, take your dominant hand in the B handshape, place it slightly in front of ear and bend your fingers down together. Then you will put your hand back in the B handshape by ear and flick outward.
Examples Using "Hi" in a Sentence
1
Hi, my name is Sarah.
Start by signing 'hi' using the B handshape near your ear, bending your fingers and flicking outward, before pointing to yourself and fingerspelling your name.
2
Hi! How are you?
Execute the 'hi' sign with a bright, welcoming facial expression, doing the bend and outward flick motion, then transition smoothly into signing 'how are you'.
3
I just wanted to say hi.
Use the 'hi' sign as described, ensuring the outward flick from your ear is casual and friendly, to greet someone quickly in passing.
How to Sign "Hi"
To make the sign hi, take your dominant hand in the B handshape, place it slightly in front of ear and bend your fingers down together. Then you will put your hand back in the B handshape by ear and flick outward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This variation of 'hi' mimics a friendly, stylized wave. The bending of the fingers and the outward flick from the ear represents a gesture of acknowledging someone's presence and sending a welcoming greeting their way, visually similar to a casual salute mixed with a playful wave.
Signing Tips
When signing 'hi,' keep your facial expression warm and friendly, as greetings rely heavily on your face to convey tone. Make sure your B handshape is crisp, with your fingers kept close together. The movement should be fluid—bend your fingers down smoothly, reset, and give a clear, casual flick outward from the ear to make the greeting look natural rather than robotic.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a loose hand instead of a clear B handshape, which can make the sign look sloppy. Beginners also tend to make the bending and flicking motions too stiff or exaggerated. Remember to keep the movement relaxed and localized near your ear rather than extending your whole arm outward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hi" in a Sentence
1Hi, my name is Sarah.
Start by signing 'hi' using the B handshape near your ear, bending your fingers and flicking outward, before pointing to yourself and fingerspelling your name.
2Hi! How are you?
Execute the 'hi' sign with a bright, welcoming facial expression, doing the bend and outward flick motion, then transition smoothly into signing 'how are you'.
3I just wanted to say hi.
Use the 'hi' sign as described, ensuring the outward flick from your ear is casual and friendly, to greet someone quickly in passing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I use one hand or two hands to sign 'hi'?
You only use one hand for this sign. Use your dominant hand (the hand you write with) to form the B handshape near your ear, bend the fingers, and flick outward.
Does my facial expression matter when signing 'hi'?
Yes, absolutely! ASL relies heavily on facial expressions. When you sign 'hi,' make sure to smile and look at the person you are greeting to convey a friendly and welcoming tone.
How far outward should I flick my hand?
The outward flick should be a small, casual movement. Keep the motion centered near your ear and shoulder area rather than fully extending your arm, which keeps the greeting natural and relaxed.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!