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PocketSign

How to Sign "Im Still Learning"

To sign "I'm still learning," begin with the sign for "still" by forming 'Y' handshapes with both hands (thumbs and pinkies extended). With palms facing down, start near your body and move both hands forward in a smooth arc. Then, sign "learning" by holding your non-dominant hand flat with the palm facing up. Use your dominant hand to "grab" information from your non-dominant palm, pulling it up to your forehead while closing your fingers into a flattened 'O' shape.

Examples Using "Im Still Learning" in a Sentence

1

Please sign slowly, I'm still learning.

You can sign PLEASE, then SIGN SLOW. Follow this by signing STILL and LEARN to politely ask the person to adjust their pace for you.

2

I don't know all the signs because I'm still learning.

Sign I, KNOW, ALL, SIGN, NOT, and then finish with STILL and LEARN. This is a great way to explain why you might miss a few words in a conversation.

3

I'm still learning ASL, but I really enjoy it.

Sign STILL, LEARN, A-S-L, followed by BUT and ENJOY. This shows your enthusiasm for the language even if you are just starting out as a beginner.

How to Sign "Im Still Learning"
To sign "I'm still learning," begin with the sign for "still" by forming 'Y' handshapes with both hands (thumbs and pinkies extended). With palms facing down, start near your body and move both hands forward in a smooth arc. Then, sign "learning" by holding your non-dominant hand flat with the palm facing up. Use your dominant hand to "grab" information from your non-dominant palm, pulling it up to your forehead while closing your fingers into a flattened 'O' shape.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The phrase "I'm still learning" combines two highly visual concepts in American Sign Language. The sign for "still" utilizes a forward motion that naturally represents time continuing onward into the future, showing that a state or action is ongoing. The sign for "learning" is wonderfully iconic and grounded in visual logic. It literally depicts the action of taking information or knowledge from a source—such as a book or a piece of paper, represented by your flat non-dominant hand—and physically placing it into your mind at your forehead.
Signing Tips
When signing "I'm still learning," focus on the fluidity between the two signs. For "still," ensure your 'Y' handshapes move forward in a smooth, continuous push to emphasize the ongoing nature of your learning journey. For "learning," visualize physically picking up knowledge from a book—represented by your non-dominant hand—and placing it directly into your brain. Keep your facial expressions friendly and humble; a slight nod or a gentle smile can help convey your positive attitude and eagerness to improve your ASL skills.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is bouncing the 'Y' hands when signing "still," rather than using a single, smooth forward motion. Bouncing can change the meaning or simply look unnatural. For the "learning" portion, many learners forget to bring their dominant hand all the way up to their forehead, stopping short in the air. Make sure you complete the motion by bringing the "information" all the way to your head. Additionally, avoid stiffening your non-dominant hand; keep it relaxed like an open book.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Im Still Learning" in a Sentence
1

Please sign slowly, I'm still learning.

You can sign PLEASE, then SIGN SLOW. Follow this by signing STILL and LEARN to politely ask the person to adjust their pace for you.

2

I don't know all the signs because I'm still learning.

Sign I, KNOW, ALL, SIGN, NOT, and then finish with STILL and LEARN. This is a great way to explain why you might miss a few words in a conversation.

3

I'm still learning ASL, but I really enjoy it.

Sign STILL, LEARN, A-S-L, followed by BUT and ENJOY. This shows your enthusiasm for the language even if you are just starting out as a beginner.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign the word 'I' first?

In American Sign Language, pronouns are frequently dropped if the context makes it obvious who is speaking. While pointing to yourself before signing 'still learning' is perfectly fine and grammatically correct, it is often unnecessary in casual conversation.

Is this a good phrase to use when I make a mistake?

Absolutely! It is a very common, polite, and helpful way to let a Deaf person know that you are a beginner. It naturally encourages them to slow down, repeat themselves, or help you out.

Why do we use the 'Y' handshape for the word 'still'?

The 'Y' handshape is traditionally used for 'still' and 'continue' in ASL. The sweeping forward motion of the hands is what truly gives the sign its meaning of an ongoing, uninterrupted state or action.

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