How to Sign "Look"

to sign 'look', bring the pinkie finger, ring finger, and thumb together on the dominant hand to create the v hand shape. bring the hand up and tap the middle fingertip against the outer corner of your eye. then, bring the hand out and around so the fingertips are facing outwards. this sign is directional, so point the fingertips towards what you want the other person to see.

Examples Using "Look" in a Sentence

1

Look at that cute dog!

To sign this, tap the outer corner of your eye with your middle finger, then point your V-handshape directly toward where the dog is located to guide the person's gaze.

2

Please look at me.

Because this sign is directional, you will tap your eye and then turn the V-handshape inward so your fingertips point directly at your own chest, indicating 'look at me'.

3

Look over there at the sunset.

Sign 'look' by tapping your eye, and then extend your arm outward, pointing your fingertips toward the horizon or the specific direction of the sunset.

How to Sign "Look"
to sign 'look', bring the pinkie finger, ring finger, and thumb together on the dominant hand to create the v hand shape. bring the hand up and tap the middle fingertip against the outer corner of your eye. then, bring the hand out and around so the fingertips are facing outwards. this sign is directional, so point the fingertips towards what you want the other person to see.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The V-handshape visually represents a pair of eyes. By tapping near your own eye and then directing those 'fingertip eyes' outward, you are literally showing the physical action of taking your gaze and directing it toward a specific target.
Signing Tips
Remember that 'look' is a directional verb, meaning the movement of the sign adds meaning to the sentence. Your eyes and your fingers should work together. When you move your V-handshape away from your eye, make sure your fingertips point exactly where you want the person to direct their attention.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is pointing the fingers straight ahead by default, rather than at the specific object or person you are referencing. Another mistake is using only the index finger, which looks more like pointing or the sign for 'see', rather than the active command to 'look'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Look" in a Sentence
1

Look at that cute dog!

To sign this, tap the outer corner of your eye with your middle finger, then point your V-handshape directly toward where the dog is located to guide the person's gaze.

2

Please look at me.

Because this sign is directional, you will tap your eye and then turn the V-handshape inward so your fingertips point directly at your own chest, indicating 'look at me'.

3

Look over there at the sunset.

Sign 'look' by tapping your eye, and then extend your arm outward, pointing your fingertips toward the horizon or the specific direction of the sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'look' and 'see' in ASL?

The sign for 'see' is typically signed by bringing the V-handshape straight out from the eye without tapping, representing passive vision. 'Look' involves tapping the eye and actively directing the gaze, showing intention.

Do I have to tap my eye every time I sign 'look'?

For this specific variation of the sign, yes. Tapping the outer corner of your eye with your middle finger establishes the action of looking before you direct the gaze outward.

How do I sign 'look at each other'?

You would use both hands in the V-handshape, starting near your eyes, and then point the fingertips of both hands toward each other to show two people's gazes meeting.

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