Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Kawaii"

To sign 'kawaii' (which uses the ASL sign for 'cute'), form a 'U' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers together. Place the tips of these fingers on your chin with your palm facing toward you. Brush your fingers downward off your chin, bending them toward your palm as you complete the motion.

Examples Using "Kawaii" in a Sentence

1

That puppy is so kawaii!

Sign 'puppy', point to the dog, and then use the sign for 'kawaii' with a big, expressive smile to show just how adorable it is.

2

I love your kawaii outfit.

Sign 'your', 'clothes', and then 'kawaii', making sure to use a bright, positive facial expression to compliment their style.

3

She draws in a kawaii style.

Sign 'she', 'draw', and then 'kawaii', emphasizing the cute and endearing nature of the artwork.

How to Sign "Kawaii"
To sign 'kawaii' (which uses the ASL sign for 'cute'), form a 'U' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers together. Place the tips of these fingers on your chin with your palm facing toward you. Brush your fingers downward off your chin, bending them toward your palm as you complete the motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
Because 'kawaii' translates to 'cute' in English, ASL uses the standard sign for 'cute' to convey this concept. The motion of brushing the chin and curling the fingers is visually motivated by drawing attention to the face, highlighting a sweet, endearing, or attractive quality. The gentle, curling movement reflects the softness and charm associated with adorable things.
Signing Tips
When signing 'kawaii', your facial expression is just as important as your hands! Since the word means cute, adorable, or endearing, make sure your face reflects a sweet, positive emotion. A bright smile or an 'aww' expression works perfectly. Keep the movement light and quick as you brush your fingers off your chin. Remember to bend your two extended fingers as they move downward, rather than keeping them stiff.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using their entire flat hand on the chin instead of just the index and middle fingers. Using the whole hand changes the meaning of the sign entirely, turning it into the sign for 'sweet'. Make sure to keep your ring and pinky fingers firmly tucked away in the 'U' handshape. Additionally, ensure you are brushing downward, not upward, to keep the sign accurate.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Kawaii" in a Sentence
1

That puppy is so kawaii!

Sign 'puppy', point to the dog, and then use the sign for 'kawaii' with a big, expressive smile to show just how adorable it is.

2

I love your kawaii outfit.

Sign 'your', 'clothes', and then 'kawaii', making sure to use a bright, positive facial expression to compliment their style.

3

She draws in a kawaii style.

Sign 'she', 'draw', and then 'kawaii', emphasizing the cute and endearing nature of the artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific ASL sign for the Japanese word 'kawaii'?

In ASL, the concept of 'kawaii' is typically expressed using the standard sign for 'cute'. You can rely on your facial expressions and body language to convey the specific anime-style or hyper-adorable meaning you intend.

Do I use one hand or two hands for this sign?

This is a one-handed sign. You should use your dominant hand to perform the brushing motion on your chin.

What is the difference between 'kawaii' (cute) and 'sweet' in ASL?

While both signs are made on the chin, 'cute' uses the 'U' handshape (just the index and middle fingers), whereas 'sweet' uses an open flat hand with all fingers extended before brushing down.

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