How to Sign "Knowledge"
To sign *knowledge*, form your dominant hand into a bent handshape, keeping your fingers together and bent at the knuckles. Bring your hand up to the side of your forehead. Tap your fingertips against your forehead twice.
Examples Using "Knowledge" in a Sentence
1
He has a lot of knowledge about history.
Sign 'history' followed by 'knowledge' to show the subject of his expertise.
2
I want to gain more knowledge.
Use the sign for 'knowledge' after signing 'want' and 'more' to express your desire to learn.
3
Her medical knowledge is impressive.
Sign 'medicine' and then 'knowledge' to specify the type of information she possesses.
How to Sign "Knowledge"
To sign *knowledge*, form your dominant hand into a bent handshape, keeping your fingers together and bent at the knuckles. Bring your hand up to the side of your forehead. Tap your fingertips against your forehead twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is located at the forehead, which is the standard location for many cognitive and mind-related signs in ASL, such as 'think' and 'understand'. The tapping motion represents the accumulation or presence of information stored in the mind.
Signing Tips
Keep the movement light and controlled; you don't need to tap your forehead hard. Ensure your fingers are kept together to maintain the correct bent handshape. Remember that the double tap helps distinguish this noun from the verb 'know'.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a flat, unbent handshape instead of bending the fingers at the knuckles. Another frequent error is tapping the center of the forehead instead of the side, or only tapping once, which looks like the sign for 'know'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Knowledge" in a Sentence
1He has a lot of knowledge about history.
Sign 'history' followed by 'knowledge' to show the subject of his expertise.
2I want to gain more knowledge.
Use the sign for 'knowledge' after signing 'want' and 'more' to express your desire to learn.
3Her medical knowledge is impressive.
Sign 'medicine' and then 'knowledge' to specify the type of information she possesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'know' and 'knowledge' in ASL?
The sign for 'know' is typically a single touch to the forehead, acting as a verb. 'Knowledge' uses a double tap to indicate the noun form, representing the accumulation of what you know.
Does it matter which side of my forehead I tap?
Yes, you should tap the side of your forehead that corresponds to your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, tap the right side of your forehead.
Can I use this sign for 'information'?
While they are related concepts, 'information' has its own distinct sign in ASL. 'Knowledge' specifically refers to the understanding and facts held within a person's mind.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!