How to Sign "Lets"
Start with a letter "V" by simultaneously extending the index finger and the middle finger so they are nearly vertical, palm oriented toward the signer and the index finger toward the subject and move in a back and forth motion toward and away from the signer. Then with both hands form the letter "P" by bending the pinky and ring fingers and extending the pointer and middle fingers with the thumb in the crook of the pointer and middle fingers and palms facing down then extend the wrist to bring the palm facing up and away from the signer. Literally "two of us are permitted"
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a literal, visual translation of 'the two of us are permitted.' The first part uses the 'V' handshape, which represents the number two, moving between the signer and the receiver to establish 'we two.' The second part uses the 'P' handshapes flipping upward and forward, which visually represents opening a gate or offering a path forward, conveying 'let' or 'allow.'
Signing Tips
Focus on a smooth transition between the two parts of this compound sign. When signing the first part, ensure the back-and-forth motion of the 'V' handshape clearly connects you and the person you are talking to. For the second part, keep your elbows relaxed as you pivot your wrists, allowing your 'P' handshapes to naturally flip upward and forward.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the standard, sweeping 'WE' sign (moving the index finger from shoulder to shoulder) instead of the specific 'V' handshape back-and-forth motion described here. Another frequent error is using flat hands for the 'LET' portion; make sure to maintain the 'P' handshapes as you extend your wrists upward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Lets" in a Sentence
1Let's go to the store.
Sign the 'WE-TWO LET' sequence as described, followed by the signs for 'GO' and 'STORE'. Emphasize the back-and-forth motion of the 'V' handshape to clearly include both you and your friend before signing 'LET'.
2Let's eat dinner together.
Sign 'WE-TWO LET' followed by 'EAT' and 'DINNER'. Ensure your two 'P' handshapes smoothly flip upward to show the suggestion or permission to start the meal.
3Let's watch a movie.
Sign 'WE-TWO LET' then 'WATCH MOVIE'. Keep the transition between the one-handed 'V' handshape and the two-handed 'P' handshapes fluid to keep the sentence natural and conversational.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I use a 'V' handshape at the beginning of the sign?
The 'V' handshape represents the number two in ASL. By moving it back and forth between yourself and the person you are talking to, you are visually saying 'the two of us' or 'we two,' which forms the first half of the concept for 'let's.'
Do my hands need to be perfectly synchronized for the second part?
Yes, for the 'LET' portion of the sign, both hands should form the 'P' handshape and pivot upward at the exact same time. This symmetry clearly conveys the meaning of permission or suggestion.
Can I just use the sign for 'LET' by itself?
While 'LET' can sometimes imply 'let's' depending on the context and your facial expressions, using the full 'WE-TWO LET' compound shown here makes it explicitly clear that you are suggesting a shared activity for the two of you.
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