Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "I Want To Die"

To sign 'I want to die', you will combine three signs in sequence: WANT, DIE, and I. First, sign WANT by holding both hands open with palms facing up, then pull them towards your body while curling your fingers into claw shapes. Next, sign DIE by holding both flat hands in front of you, one palm up and the other palm down, and flipping them over simultaneously. Finally, sign I by pointing to your chest with your index finger.

Examples Using "I Want To Die" in a Sentence

1

I want to die of embarrassment.

This phrase is often used figuratively to express extreme embarrassment. Sign 'I want to die' and follow it with the sign for 'embarrassed' to show your dramatic reaction.

2

When I saw my test score, I wanted to die.

Use this to express a strong dramatic reaction to bad news. Sign 'I want to die' with a shocked or devastated facial expression to convey your feelings.

3

I was laughing so hard I wanted to die.

This can be used hyperbolically for something very funny. Sign 'I want to die' while showing a big smile or laughing expression to make it clear you are joking.

How to Sign "I Want To Die"
To sign 'I want to die', you will combine three signs in sequence: WANT, DIE, and I. First, sign WANT by holding both hands open with palms facing up, then pull them towards your body while curling your fingers into claw shapes. Next, sign DIE by holding both flat hands in front of you, one palm up and the other palm down, and flipping them over simultaneously. Finally, sign I by pointing to your chest with your index finger.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase combines three foundational ASL signs. 'WANT' visually represents pulling something you desire toward yourself. 'DIE' originates from the concept of rolling over or passing away, visually shown by the hands flipping over from one state to another. 'I' is a simple, universally understood pointing gesture indicating oneself.
Signing Tips
When signing this phrase, make sure your facial expressions match the intensity of the emotion you are trying to convey. If you are using it hyperbolically (like dying of embarrassment or laughter), your face should reflect that specific emotion rather than genuine despair. Ensure the flipping motion for 'DIE' is crisp and simultaneous for both hands.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is forgetting to curl the fingers into claw shapes when pulling the hands in for 'WANT'. Another mistake is not flipping both hands at the same time during the sign for 'DIE', or starting with both palms facing the same direction instead of opposite directions.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "I Want To Die" in a Sentence
1

I want to die of embarrassment.

This phrase is often used figuratively to express extreme embarrassment. Sign 'I want to die' and follow it with the sign for 'embarrassed' to show your dramatic reaction.

2

When I saw my test score, I wanted to die.

Use this to express a strong dramatic reaction to bad news. Sign 'I want to die' with a shocked or devastated facial expression to convey your feelings.

3

I was laughing so hard I wanted to die.

This can be used hyperbolically for something very funny. Sign 'I want to die' while showing a big smile or laughing expression to make it clear you are joking.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this phrase figuratively in ASL?

Yes, just like in English, 'I want to die' can be used hyperbolically to express extreme embarrassment, shock, or laughter. Your facial expressions are crucial here to show the true intent behind the phrase.

Why is the sign 'I' at the end of the phrase?

ASL has its own distinct grammar and syntax, which often differs from English word order. Placing the subject pronoun 'I' at the end of a sentence is a common ASL sentence structure, emphasizing the subject after the action.

Do I have to sign the word 'to'?

No, you do not need to sign the English word 'to'. ASL does not use English infinitives in the same way, so combining 'WANT' and 'DIE' directly conveys the meaning perfectly without needing extra filler words.

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