How to Sign "Kindly"

To sign 'kindly', start with your dominant hand flat, fingers together, and your palm facing toward you. Place your fingertips gently on or near your chin. Move your hand forward and slightly down in a smooth, polite arc toward the person you are signing to. This sign is visually identical to the sign for 'thank you' or 'good'.

Examples Using "Kindly" in a Sentence

1

Would you kindly help me with this?

You can use this sign at the beginning of your sentence to set a polite tone, followed by the signs for 'help' and 'me'.

2

He kindly offered to drive.

Sign 'he', then use this sign for 'kindly' to show graciousness, followed by the signs for 'offer' and 'drive'.

3

Kindly let me know your decision.

Start with the sign for 'kindly' to make a polite request, then sign 'let me know' and 'decision'.

How to Sign "Kindly"
To sign 'kindly', start with your dominant hand flat, fingers together, and your palm facing toward you. Place your fingertips gently on or near your chin. Move your hand forward and slightly down in a smooth, polite arc toward the person you are signing to. This sign is visually identical to the sign for 'thank you' or 'good'.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is rooted in the idea of offering good words or positive intentions. By taking something from the mouth—the source of spoken words—and offering it forward on an open, flat hand, it visually represents giving someone a polite, gracious, or 'kindly' sentiment.
Signing Tips
Keep your hand shape flat and relaxed, with your fingers together. The movement should be a single, smooth arc away from your face. To convey the polite and gracious tone of 'kindly', ensure your facial expression is warm and friendly.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving the hand too quickly or forcefully, which can make the sign look aggressive rather than polite. Another mistake is starting the sign from the forehead or chest instead of the chin.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Kindly" in a Sentence
1

Would you kindly help me with this?

You can use this sign at the beginning of your sentence to set a polite tone, followed by the signs for 'help' and 'me'.

2

He kindly offered to drive.

Sign 'he', then use this sign for 'kindly' to show graciousness, followed by the signs for 'offer' and 'drive'.

3

Kindly let me know your decision.

Start with the sign for 'kindly' to make a polite request, then sign 'let me know' and 'decision'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'thank you'?

Yes, the sign shown here for 'kindly' uses the exact same handshape, location, and movement as the signs for 'thank you' and 'good'. In ASL, the surrounding context and your facial expressions will clarify the specific meaning you intend to convey.

Can I use the sign for 'please' instead?

Depending on the context, yes! If you are using 'kindly' to mean 'please' (such as in the phrase 'kindly close the door'), you can use the traditional sign for 'please' (rubbing a flat hand in a circle on your chest). The sign shown here emphasizes a gracious or 'good' action.

Does it matter which hand I use?

You should always use your dominant hand for this sign. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to touch your chin and move forward; if you are left-handed, use your left hand.

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