How to Sign "I Am"
Take your dominant hand in the "d" handshape and point it to yourself and tap twice on your chest.
Examples Using "I Am" in a Sentence
1
I am deaf.
Tap your chest twice with your dominant 'd' handshape to sign 'I am', then sign 'deaf' by touching your index finger from your ear to the corner of your mouth.
2
I am learning to sign.
Start by pointing your 'd' handshape at yourself and tapping your chest twice. Then, follow up with the signs for 'learning' and 'sign'.
3
I am tired.
Indicate yourself by tapping your chest twice with the 'd' handshape, then transition into the sign for 'tired' by placing your curved hands on your chest and rolling them downward.
How to Sign "I Am"
Take your dominant hand in the "d" handshape and point it to yourself and tap twice on your chest.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign relies on a highly intuitive, natural visual gesture: pointing to oneself. In many cultures, indicating the self is done by pointing directly at the speaker's chest. In ASL, this iconic gesture is formalized using the 'd' handshape to clearly identify the first-person subject of the sentence.
Signing Tips
When forming the 'd' handshape, ensure your thumb connects with your middle, ring, and pinky fingers to form a neat circle while your index finger remains extended. Keep your wrist relaxed as you bring the tip of your index finger to tap your chest twice. The taps should be light, quick, and natural.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make is using a flat, open palm on the chest instead of the 'd' handshape. A flat palm changes the meaning of the word from 'I am' (or 'I') to the possessive 'my' or 'mine'. Additionally, avoid jabbing your chest too hard; a gentle double tap is all you need.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "I Am" in a Sentence
1I am deaf.
Tap your chest twice with your dominant 'd' handshape to sign 'I am', then sign 'deaf' by touching your index finger from your ear to the corner of your mouth.
2I am learning to sign.
Start by pointing your 'd' handshape at yourself and tapping your chest twice. Then, follow up with the signs for 'learning' and 'sign'.
3I am tired.
Indicate yourself by tapping your chest twice with the 'd' handshape, then transition into the sign for 'tired' by placing your curved hands on your chest and rolling them downward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a separate sign for the word 'am'?
No, American Sign Language does not use 'to be' verbs like 'am', 'is', or 'are'. Tapping your chest with the 'd' handshape establishes that you are talking about yourself, which translates perfectly to 'I am' in English sentences.
Why do I tap twice instead of just once?
While a single tap is often used in fast, conversational signing to mean 'I', tapping twice is a great way for beginners to clearly emphasize the subject 'I am'. Both are understood, but the double tap adds clarity when you are first learning.
How is this different from the sign for 'my'?
The difference is entirely in the handshape. 'I am' uses the 'd' handshape pointing at your chest, whereas 'my' uses a flat, open palm placed flat against your chest.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!