How to Sign "No Worries"

To sign 'no worries,' start by holding both open hands in front of you with palms facing forward, and gently push them forward as if waving off a concern. Then, bring your dominant hand to your chest, with your thumb touching your chest and your fingers spread pointing upward. This second part is the standard ASL sign for 'FINE.' Together, this sequence communicates that everything is okay and there is no need for concern.

Examples Using "No Worries" in a Sentence

1

Thanks for helping me with this project!

Use this sign combination in response to someone thanking you to show that the favor was no trouble at all.

2

I'm so sorry I bumped into you!

Sign 'no worries' to reassure someone who is apologizing that their minor mistake is not a big deal.

3

Can we reschedule our meeting for tomorrow?

This sign perfectly conveys a relaxed, accommodating attitude when someone asks for a change of plans.

How to Sign "No Worries"
To sign 'no worries,' start by holding both open hands in front of you with palms facing forward, and gently push them forward as if waving off a concern. Then, bring your dominant hand to your chest, with your thumb touching your chest and your fingers spread pointing upward. This second part is the standard ASL sign for 'FINE.' Together, this sequence communicates that everything is okay and there is no need for concern.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase is a great example of combining a natural gesture with a formal ASL sign. The first movement uses open hands pushing forward to visually clear away the problem or wave off the concern. The second movement is the ASL sign for 'FINE,' where the thumb rests on the chest to indicate personal well-being. Together, they literally show 'wave it away, I am fine.'
Signing Tips
Facial expressions are essential for conveying the right tone with this phrase. When you perform the initial wave-off motion, shake your head slightly and keep your face relaxed to show that you are truly unbothered. When you transition to the 'FINE' sign, adding a small, reassuring smile helps emphasize that everything is perfectly okay. Keep your movements fluid rather than rigid.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the initial wave-off motion too stiff, forceful, or aggressive. If you push your hands out too hard, it can look like you are angrily telling someone to stop or go away rather than reassuring them. Keep the movement gentle, casual, and relaxed to accurately convey a friendly attitude.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "No Worries" in a Sentence
1

Thanks for helping me with this project!

Use this sign combination in response to someone thanking you to show that the favor was no trouble at all.

2

I'm so sorry I bumped into you!

Sign 'no worries' to reassure someone who is apologizing that their minor mistake is not a big deal.

3

Can we reschedule our meeting for tomorrow?

This sign perfectly conveys a relaxed, accommodating attitude when someone asks for a change of plans.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the only way to sign 'no worries'?

No, ASL has a few ways to express this concept. You might also see people sign 'DON'T WORRY' using 'B' hands making alternating circles in front of the face, or simply signing 'FINE' on its own depending on the context.

Can I use this instead of 'you're welcome'?

Yes! Just like in English, 'no worries' is a very common and casual way to respond when someone says 'thank you' in ASL. It shows that you were happy to help.

Do I need to use both hands for the first part?

Using both hands emphasizes the reassurance, but in very casual or fast-paced conversation, you might see someone do a quick one-handed wave-off before signing 'FINE'.

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