How to Sign "Leave"

To sign 'leave, bring the dominant hand up to forehead level, with the hand out from the head and the palm facing inwards. Bend the hand at the wrist, leaving the hand in a relaxed claw shape. Bring the hand further out while bringing the fingertips together to make the hand into a teardrop shape.

Examples Using "Leave" in a Sentence

1

I need to leave now.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'need' and 'now', and then perform the sign for 'leave' by bringing your relaxed claw hand near your forehead and pulling it outward into a teardrop shape.

2

Did she leave already?

Point to the person to indicate 'she', sign 'already', and then execute 'leave' by pulling your hand outward from your forehead while closing your fingertips together. Remember to raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

3

Let's leave together.

Sign 'together', then sign 'leave' by starting with your dominant hand's palm facing inward at forehead level, smoothly pulling away from your head into a closed teardrop shape.

How to Sign "Leave"
To sign 'leave, bring the dominant hand up to forehead level, with the hand out from the head and the palm facing inwards. Bend the hand at the wrist, leaving the hand in a relaxed claw shape. Bring the hand further out while bringing the fingertips together to make the hand into a teardrop shape.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual logic of this sign represents the concept of taking something—like a thought, a presence, or an intention—and pulling it away. The open claw shape closing into a teardrop mimics the action of grasping a concept and removing it from its current location, beautifully symbolizing the act of leaving, departing, or extracting oneself.
Signing Tips
Focus on the smooth transition of your handshape. Start with a loose, relaxed claw near your forehead, ensuring your palm faces inward toward you. As you pull your hand outward away from your head, fluidly bring all your fingertips together to meet your thumb, forming a neat teardrop shape at the exact end of the motion. Keep the movement deliberate and clear.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is starting with the hand too low or facing the wrong direction. Make sure your hand is up at forehead level and the palm is facing inward toward you. Additionally, avoid snapping the fingers shut too quickly; the motion of pulling outward and closing the fingers into a teardrop shape should be one continuous, synchronized action.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Leave" in a Sentence
1

I need to leave now.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'need' and 'now', and then perform the sign for 'leave' by bringing your relaxed claw hand near your forehead and pulling it outward into a teardrop shape.

2

Did she leave already?

Point to the person to indicate 'she', sign 'already', and then execute 'leave' by pulling your hand outward from your forehead while closing your fingertips together. Remember to raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

3

Let's leave together.

Sign 'together', then sign 'leave' by starting with your dominant hand's palm facing inward at forehead level, smoothly pulling away from your head into a closed teardrop shape.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand I use to sign 'leave'?

You should always use your dominant hand for this sign. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to start at your forehead and pull outward into the teardrop shape. Keep your non-dominant hand relaxed at your side.

How fast should I pull my hand away?

The speed can vary depending on the context of your sentence. For a normal statement, a smooth, moderate pace is best. If you are emphasizing leaving in a big hurry, you can perform the pulling and closing motion more quickly and sharply.

What exactly is a 'teardrop shape' in ASL?

A teardrop shape, often referred to as a 'flat O' handshape in ASL, is made by bringing the tips of all four of your fingers to touch the tip of your thumb. It looks like you are holding a small piece of paper or a tiny pinch of salt.

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