How to Sign "Lady"
To sign 'lady', form an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your thumb extended. Touch the tip of your thumb to your chin. Then, move your hand down in a smooth motion to touch your thumb to the center of your chest.
Examples Using "Lady" in a Sentence
1
That lady is my teacher.
Start by pointing to the person you are referring to, then use the sign for 'lady' by moving your thumb from your chin to your chest. Finish the sentence by signing 'my' and 'teacher'.
2
The lady over there is wearing a red dress.
Begin by signing 'lady' and pointing to her location to establish who you are talking about. Then, sign 'red' by brushing your index finger down your lips, followed by the sign for 'dress'.
3
Please help that lady.
First, sign 'please' by rubbing an open flat hand in a circle over your chest. Next, sign 'help' by lifting your dominant 'A' hand with your non-dominant flat hand, and finally sign 'lady'.
How to Sign "Lady"
To sign 'lady', form an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your thumb extended. Touch the tip of your thumb to your chin. Then, move your hand down in a smooth motion to touch your thumb to the center of your chest.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
In American Sign Language, gender is typically indicated by location: male signs are placed near the forehead, while female signs are placed near the chin or jaw. This sign for 'lady' begins at the female designated area (the chin) and moves down to the chest, a location often associated with identity, personhood, or formal presence.
Signing Tips
Make sure to clearly touch both your chin and your chest with your thumb. The movement should be a smooth, deliberate, and respectful motion. Keep your fingers tucked in neatly to maintain a clear 'A' handshape throughout the sign, ensuring your thumb is prominently extended to make contact.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using an open '5' handshape instead of the 'A' handshape shown in this specific variation. While the '5' handshape is widely used for 'woman', practicing the 'A' handshape version helps you recognize different signing styles. Additionally, be careful not to skip the chin contact, as starting directly on the chest changes the sign completely.
Regional Variations
While this video shows the sign with an 'A' handshape, you will very frequently see 'lady' signed with an open '5' handshape (thumb touching the chin, then the chest). Both variations are widely understood across North America.
Examples Using "Lady" in a Sentence
1That lady is my teacher.
Start by pointing to the person you are referring to, then use the sign for 'lady' by moving your thumb from your chin to your chest. Finish the sentence by signing 'my' and 'teacher'.
2The lady over there is wearing a red dress.
Begin by signing 'lady' and pointing to her location to establish who you are talking about. Then, sign 'red' by brushing your index finger down your lips, followed by the sign for 'dress'.
3Please help that lady.
First, sign 'please' by rubbing an open flat hand in a circle over your chest. Next, sign 'help' by lifting your dominant 'A' hand with your non-dominant flat hand, and finally sign 'lady'.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'lady' and 'woman' in ASL?
The signs for 'lady' and 'woman' are very similar and often used interchangeably in everyday conversation. Both share the same movement from the chin to the chest. 'Woman' is usually signed with an open '5' handshape, while 'lady' can use the 'A' handshape shown here.
Why do female signs start at the chin?
In ASL, signs related to females—such as mother, girl, aunt, and lady—are traditionally located on the lower half of the face, specifically near the chin or jawline. Conversely, signs for males are located on the upper half of the face, near the forehead.
Do I need to tap my chest multiple times?
No, the sign for 'lady' only requires a single, deliberate touch to the chin followed by a single touch to the center of the chest. Tapping your chest multiple times is unnecessary and could potentially confuse the meaning of the sign.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!