To sign 'idiot', bring the fingers of the dominant hand down so they press the palm. Leave the thumb resting along the index finger so it creates the A hand shape. Bring the dominant hand up and press it to your forehead. Make a disgusted look on your face as you sign it to show your discontent.
Sign 'DON'T' followed by the 'A' handshape pressed to your forehead for 'idiot.' Make sure to use a stern or disgusted facial expression to match the tone of the warning.
Point to yourself for 'I,' then sign 'idiot' by pressing the 'A' handshape against your forehead. You can adjust your facial expression to look embarrassed rather than disgusted to fit the context.
Point to the person to establish 'HE,' sign 'ACT,' and then press the 'A' handshape to your forehead for 'idiot,' keeping a strong, discontented look on your face.
Sign 'DON'T' followed by the 'A' handshape pressed to your forehead for 'idiot.' Make sure to use a stern or disgusted facial expression to match the tone of the warning.
Point to yourself for 'I,' then sign 'idiot' by pressing the 'A' handshape against your forehead. You can adjust your facial expression to look embarrassed rather than disgusted to fit the context.
Point to the person to establish 'HE,' sign 'ACT,' and then press the 'A' handshape to your forehead for 'idiot,' keeping a strong, discontented look on your face.
No, you do not need to strike yourself. A firm press of the 'A' handshape against your forehead is enough. The emphasis of the sign comes much more from your disgusted facial expression than the physical force used.
Yes, in ASL, context and facial expressions change the tone of a sign. While the standard sign uses a disgusted look to show true discontent, you can soften your facial expression and add a slight smile if you are jokingly calling a close friend an idiot.
You should always use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, form the 'A' handshape with your right hand and press it to the right side or center of your forehead.
