How to Sign "Human"

To sign "human," form both hands into "H" handshapes by extending your index and middle fingers together while tucking your thumbs over your curled ring and pinky fingers. Position both hands near your upper chest with your extended fingers pointing inward toward each other. Finally, move both hands straight down along the sides of your torso in a smooth motion.

Examples Using "Human" in a Sentence

1

Every human makes mistakes.

Sign "HUMAN" by moving the "H" hands down your torso, followed by the signs for "ALL" and "MISTAKE" to convey that errors are a natural part of life.

2

The human body is amazing.

Use the "H" handshape downward motion for "HUMAN," then sign "BODY" and "AMAZING" with an expressive facial expression to show awe at our anatomy.

3

We are all human beings.

Sign "WE," "ALL," and then "HUMAN" by moving both "H" hands down your chest to emphasize our shared nature and existence.

How to Sign "Human"
To sign "human," form both hands into "H" handshapes by extending your index and middle fingers together while tucking your thumbs over your curled ring and pinky fingers. Position both hands near your upper chest with your extended fingers pointing inward toward each other. Finally, move both hands straight down along the sides of your torso in a smooth motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the sign for "PERSON" or "CHARACTER." It uses the "H" handshape to represent the first letter of the English word "Human," while the downward motion along the torso visually outlines the sides or presence of the human body.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your "H" handshapes crisp, with the index and middle fingers pressed tightly together. The movement should be a smooth, straight line downward, parallel to your body. Keep your palms facing your body or angled slightly inward throughout the entire downward motion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using "P" handshapes or flat hands instead of "H" handshapes. While moving "P" hands or flat hands downward means "PERSON," the specific word "HUMAN" requires the "H" handshape. Another mistake is moving the hands in a curvy line rather than straight down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Human" in a Sentence
1

Every human makes mistakes.

Sign "HUMAN" by moving the "H" hands down your torso, followed by the signs for "ALL" and "MISTAKE" to convey that errors are a natural part of life.

2

The human body is amazing.

Use the "H" handshape downward motion for "HUMAN," then sign "BODY" and "AMAZING" with an expressive facial expression to show awe at our anatomy.

3

We are all human beings.

Sign "WE," "ALL," and then "HUMAN" by moving both "H" hands down your chest to emphasize our shared nature and existence.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'human' and 'person' in ASL?

The sign for 'person' is typically made using 'P' handshapes or flat hands moving downward along the sides of the torso. 'Human' uses the exact same downward motion but specifically uses 'H' handshapes to initialize the English word.

Can I use this sign to mean 'body'?

No, 'body' is signed differently. For 'body,' you place flat open hands on your upper chest and then tap them again on your lower torso or stomach. 'Human' specifically uses the 'H' handshapes moving smoothly down the sides in the air.

Does the speed of the downward motion matter?

A standard, smooth downward motion is best. If you sign it too quickly or sharply, it might look unnatural or aggressive. Keep the movement relaxed and steady, simply tracing the sides of the torso to establish the concept.

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