How to Sign "Kind"
A group of people or things having similar characteristics
Examples Using "Kind" in a Sentence
1
What kind of dog is that?
Establish the subject first by signing 'DOG'. Then sign 'KIND', and finish with 'WHAT', remembering to furrow your eyebrows since it is a 'wh-' question.
2
I like all kinds of music.
Sign 'MUSIC', followed by 'ALL', and then 'KIND'. You can emphasize the variety by making the circular motion of 'KIND' slightly larger or repeating it.
3
We have two kinds of apples.
Start by signing 'APPLE', then hold up the number 'TWO', and finish with the sign for 'KIND' to show the different categories.
How to Sign "Kind"
A group of people or things having similar characteristics
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a great example of an initialized sign, meaning it uses the first letter of the English word—in this case, the 'K' handshape for 'kind.' The circular, encompassing motion of the dominant hand around the base hand visually represents gathering or grouping items together into a specific category.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your non-dominant hand steady as an anchor. Only your dominant hand should be doing the circular movement. Make sure your 'K' handshapes are crisp—your index finger should point straight up while your middle finger points forward, with the thumb tucked between them. The circling motion should be smooth and deliberate.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake is confusing this sign with the word 'kind' meaning 'nice' or 'compassionate.' Remember, this specific sign means 'type' or 'sort.' Another frequent error is moving both hands in circles simultaneously, which can confuse the viewer; keep your base hand still.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Kind" in a Sentence
1What kind of dog is that?
Establish the subject first by signing 'DOG'. Then sign 'KIND', and finish with 'WHAT', remembering to furrow your eyebrows since it is a 'wh-' question.
2I like all kinds of music.
Sign 'MUSIC', followed by 'ALL', and then 'KIND'. You can emphasize the variety by making the circular motion of 'KIND' slightly larger or repeating it.
3We have two kinds of apples.
Start by signing 'APPLE', then hold up the number 'TWO', and finish with the sign for 'KIND' to show the different categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign for 'kind' as in 'a kind person'?
No, ASL uses different signs depending on the meaning. This sign means 'type' or 'sort.' For 'kind' meaning 'nice,' you would use an open hand brushing in a circular motion over your heart.
Can I use this sign to mean 'type' or 'sort'?
Yes! This sign is perfectly interchangeable for English words like 'type,' 'sort,' or 'category.' It is used whenever you are talking about grouping things with similar characteristics.
Do both hands move when signing 'kind'?
Generally, no. Your non-dominant hand should stay relatively still as a base while your dominant hand circles around it. Moving both hands can make the sign look messy or confusing to the person watching.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!