How to Sign "Lost"

the sign 'lost' uses both hands. Relax both hands so the fingers are touching together and the hands are bent. Press the knuckles of the middle fingers together and in front of you. Then, bring the hands apart so the fingers point downwards, like you just dropped something.

Examples Using "Lost" in a Sentence

1

I lost my keys.

Point to yourself for 'I', perform the 'lost' sign by touching your bent knuckles together and dropping your hands open, and then sign 'keys'.

2

Are we lost?

Sign 'we' by gesturing between yourself and your companion, then sign 'lost'. Be sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to indicate a yes/no question.

3

He lost his jacket.

Point to the person for 'he', sign 'lost' by dropping your hands downward, and then sign 'jacket'. Use a slightly frustrated facial expression to match the context.

How to Sign "Lost"
the sign 'lost' uses both hands. Relax both hands so the fingers are touching together and the hands are bent. Press the knuckles of the middle fingers together and in front of you. Then, bring the hands apart so the fingers point downwards, like you just dropped something.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'lost' is highly iconic and visually represents the concept of dropping an object. By starting with your fingers together and knuckles touching, it mimics holding onto something. When you suddenly pull your hands apart and let your fingers point downward, it perfectly illustrates the action of something slipping through your fingers and falling away, symbolizing that the item is now gone.
Signing Tips
To make the sign for 'lost' look natural, focus on the contrast between the beginning and end of the movement. Start with a firm but relaxed connection when your knuckles touch, then use a quick, sudden motion as your hands drop and open. This suddenness visually captures the unexpected nature of losing something. Don't forget to pair the sign with an appropriate facial expression, like a slight frown or a look of confusion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is dropping their hands too far down to their waist or knees. The dropping motion should be relatively short and contained within your normal signing space, just below chest level. Another frequent error is keeping the hands tense; remember to start with relaxed, bent hands and let your fingers point downwards naturally as they separate.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Lost" in a Sentence
1

I lost my keys.

Point to yourself for 'I', perform the 'lost' sign by touching your bent knuckles together and dropping your hands open, and then sign 'keys'.

2

Are we lost?

Sign 'we' by gesturing between yourself and your companion, then sign 'lost'. Be sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to indicate a yes/no question.

3

He lost his jacket.

Point to the person for 'he', sign 'lost' by dropping your hands downward, and then sign 'jacket'. Use a slightly frustrated facial expression to match the context.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign if my favorite sports team lost a game?

No, this specific sign is only used for misplacing an object or losing your physical way. If you want to say a team lost a game or competition, you would use a different sign where a 'V' handshape falls onto your opposite palm.

Should my palms face me or the floor when I start the sign?

When you start the sign with your knuckles touching, your palms should be facing generally upward or toward your body. As you drop your hands apart, your fingers will point downwards, naturally turning your palms to face the floor.

Do I need to look at my hands when they drop?

You do not need to follow your hands with your eyes. It is best to maintain eye contact with the person you are conversing with. Let your facial expression—rather than your gaze—show the frustration or confusion of losing something.

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