How to Sign "Inform"

Start with both hands in 'flat O' shapes (fingers and thumbs pinched together) held near your upper chest or chin. Move both hands forward while opening them into flat, open hands with your palms facing up. The movement should be smooth, as if you are taking information and handing it out to someone.

Examples Using "Inform" in a Sentence

1

Please inform me if you are coming.

Because 'inform' is a directional sign, to sign 'inform me', you would start with your hands away from your body and move them inward toward your chest as they open.

2

I will inform the teacher.

Sign 'I', then sign 'inform' by moving your hands forward from your chest toward the space where you established the teacher, followed by the sign for 'teacher'.

3

Did they inform you about the meeting?

Move the sign for 'inform' from the space representing 'they' toward the person you are signing to, showing that the information was given to them.

How to Sign "Inform"
Start with both hands in 'flat O' shapes (fingers and thumbs pinched together) held near your upper chest or chin. Move both hands forward while opening them into flat, open hands with your palms facing up. The movement should be smooth, as if you are taking information and handing it out to someone.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly visual and iconic. The closed 'flat O' hands represent holding onto information or knowledge. Moving the hands forward and opening them perfectly illustrates the act of giving that information out for others to receive.
Signing Tips
Pay attention to the direction of your movement. 'Inform' is a directional sign, meaning the way you move your hands shows who is informing whom. Always move your hands toward the person receiving the information.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is keeping the hands closed throughout the sign. Make sure to clearly open your hands from the 'flat O' shape to open palms, representing the release or sharing of information.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Inform" in a Sentence
1

Please inform me if you are coming.

Because 'inform' is a directional sign, to sign 'inform me', you would start with your hands away from your body and move them inward toward your chest as they open.

2

I will inform the teacher.

Sign 'I', then sign 'inform' by moving your hands forward from your chest toward the space where you established the teacher, followed by the sign for 'teacher'.

3

Did they inform you about the meeting?

Move the sign for 'inform' from the space representing 'they' toward the person you are signing to, showing that the information was given to them.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'inform' the same as 'let know'?

Yes! This sign is very commonly used to mean 'let know', 'notify', or 'inform'. It perfectly captures the concept of sharing information with someone.

How do I sign 'inform me'?

Because 'inform' is a directional sign, you simply reverse the movement. Start with your hands in the 'flat O' shape away from your body, and move them inward toward your chest as you open them.

What is the difference between 'inform' and 'tell'?

While both involve sharing information, 'tell' is signed using a single index finger moving forward from the chin. 'Inform' uses both hands and emphasizes the giving or distributing of a body of information.

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