Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Interpret"

Form both hands into "F" shapes, with your thumbs and index fingers pinched together and your other fingers extended. Bring your hands in front of your chest so the pinched fingers of your dominant hand touch the pinched fingers of your non-dominant hand. Keep your non-dominant hand still while twisting your dominant hand forward and backward a couple of times at the wrist.

Examples Using "Interpret" in a Sentence

1

Can you interpret for me?

Sign "YOU", then the sign for "INTERPRET", followed by "FOR ME". Make sure to use a questioning facial expression with raised eyebrows and slightly lean forward to indicate a yes/no question.

2

She works as a sign language interpreter.

Sign "SHE", "WORK", and then sign "INTERPRET" immediately followed by the "PERSON" marker (moving flat hands down the sides of your body) to change the verb into the noun "interpreter".

3

I need to interpret this sentence.

Sign "I", "NEED", "INTERPRET", "THIS", "SENTENCE". Emphasize the twisting motion of the "INTERPRET" sign to clearly show the active process of translating the information.

How to Sign "Interpret"
Form both hands into "F" shapes, with your thumbs and index fingers pinched together and your other fingers extended. Bring your hands in front of your chest so the pinched fingers of your dominant hand touch the pinched fingers of your non-dominant hand. Keep your non-dominant hand still while twisting your dominant hand forward and backward a couple of times at the wrist.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'interpret' relies on a strong visual metaphor. The two "F" handshapes linked together represent two different languages, cultures, or concepts connecting with one another. The active twisting motion of the dominant hand symbolizes the dynamic process of translating, changing, or 'turning over' one language into another to facilitate clear communication.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your non-dominant hand steady as an anchor while your dominant hand does the twisting motion. Ensure your "F" handshapes are clear, with the middle, ring, and pinky fingers comfortably fanned out. The movement should come entirely from the wrist of your dominant hand, rather than moving your whole arm. Keep the motion smooth and controlled.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is twisting both hands simultaneously instead of keeping the non-dominant hand stationary as a base. Another common error is using closed "O" handshapes—where all fingers touch the thumb—rather than the correct "F" handshapes with the remaining three fingers extended and fanned out. Make sure the hands stay connected at the fingertips.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Interpret" in a Sentence
1

Can you interpret for me?

Sign "YOU", then the sign for "INTERPRET", followed by "FOR ME". Make sure to use a questioning facial expression with raised eyebrows and slightly lean forward to indicate a yes/no question.

2

She works as a sign language interpreter.

Sign "SHE", "WORK", and then sign "INTERPRET" immediately followed by the "PERSON" marker (moving flat hands down the sides of your body) to change the verb into the noun "interpreter".

3

I need to interpret this sentence.

Sign "I", "NEED", "INTERPRET", "THIS", "SENTENCE". Emphasize the twisting motion of the "INTERPRET" sign to clearly show the active process of translating the information.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between signing 'interpret' and 'interpreter'?

To change the verb 'interpret' into the noun 'interpreter,' you simply sign 'interpret' and immediately follow it with the 'person' marker. The person marker is made by sliding two flat hands downward in front of your body, indicating an individual who performs the action.

Does this sign also mean 'translate'?

Yes, this sign is commonly used for both 'interpret' and 'translate.' In ASL, the context of your sentence will usually make it clear whether you are talking about spoken or signed interpretation versus written translation.

Should my hands touch during this sign?

Yes, the tips of your pinched thumb and index fingers on both hands should touch or remain very close to each other. They act as a pivot point while your dominant hand twists back and forth.

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