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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Japanese"

To sign 'Japanese' (which also means 'Japan'), start with both hands in front of your chest. Form open 'G' shapes with your index fingers and thumbs, keeping your other fingers curled. Bring your hands close together so your fingers almost touch. Then, smoothly pull both hands outward to the sides. As you move your hands apart, gradually pinch your index fingers and thumbs together, finishing the pinch as your hands stop. This outward, pinching motion represents tracing the shape of the Japanese islands.

Examples Using "Japanese" in a Sentence

1

I am learning Japanese.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I', use the sign for 'LEARN' by pulling knowledge from your palm to your forehead, and then sign 'JAPANESE' by tracing the island shape outward with your index fingers and thumbs.

2

Do you like Japanese food?

Sign 'YOU', 'LIKE', 'JAPANESE', and 'FOOD'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward while signing to show you are asking a question.

3

I want to visit Japan.

In ASL, the sign for 'Japanese' is also used for the country of 'Japan'. You can express this sentence by signing 'I', 'WANT', 'GO', and then finishing with the sign for 'JAPAN'.

How to Sign "Japanese"
To sign 'Japanese' (which also means 'Japan'), start with both hands in front of your chest. Form open 'G' shapes with your index fingers and thumbs, keeping your other fingers curled. Bring your hands close together so your fingers almost touch. Then, smoothly pull both hands outward to the sides. As you move your hands apart, gradually pinch your index fingers and thumbs together, finishing the pinch as your hands stop. This outward, pinching motion represents tracing the shape of the Japanese islands.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually grounded in geography. The movement of the hands starting together and pulling apart while pinching traces the outline of the main crescent-shaped chain of islands that make up the country of Japan. By outlining this distinct geographical shape, the sign creates a visual representation of the nation itself, making it easier to remember once you understand the visual logic behind the movement.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping the movement smooth and horizontal across your chest. The pinching motion of your index fingers and thumbs should happen gradually as your hands move apart, finishing the pinch exactly when your hands stop moving. Keep your palms facing slightly forward or toward each other throughout the sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving the hands up or down instead of straight out to the sides. Another frequent error is forgetting to pinch the index finger and thumb together, leaving them open the entire time. Make sure the pinch happens naturally as your hands separate to correctly form the sign.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Japanese" in a Sentence
1

I am learning Japanese.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I', use the sign for 'LEARN' by pulling knowledge from your palm to your forehead, and then sign 'JAPANESE' by tracing the island shape outward with your index fingers and thumbs.

2

Do you like Japanese food?

Sign 'YOU', 'LIKE', 'JAPANESE', and 'FOOD'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward while signing to show you are asking a question.

3

I want to visit Japan.

In ASL, the sign for 'Japanese' is also used for the country of 'Japan'. You can express this sentence by signing 'I', 'WANT', 'GO', and then finishing with the sign for 'JAPAN'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'Japan' the same as 'Japanese'?

Yes, in ASL, the exact same sign is typically used for both the country of Japan and the Japanese language or people. The meaning is easily understood based on the context of your sentence. For example, signing 'speak Japanese' versus 'travel to Japan' makes the intent clear.

How far apart should my hands move?

Your hands should move outward to just about the width of your shoulders. There is no need to stretch your arms out completely or make a massive gesture. A comfortable, shoulder-width distance is perfect and looks the most natural.

Can I do this sign with just one hand?

No, 'Japanese' is a symmetrical two-handed sign. Using both hands is essential to properly convey the geographical shape of the islands that the sign represents. Always use both hands moving outward simultaneously to ensure you are signing it correctly.

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