How to Sign "Nothing"

the sign 'nothing' uses both hands. On each hand, press the fingertips together so both hands form teardrop shapes. Bring the hands out to the chest so the backs of the fingers are on the tops of the hands. Shake the two hands back and forth.

Examples Using "Nothing" in a Sentence

1

I have nothing to do today.

Sign 'today', point to yourself, and then use the two-handed teardrop shape, shaking it back and forth to show you have zero plans.

2

There is nothing left in the fridge.

After signing 'refrigerator', use the two teardrop handshapes and shake them back and forth at your chest to emphasize that it is completely empty.

3

I know nothing about that.

Point to yourself, sign 'know', point to the topic in space, and then shake the two teardrop handshapes back and forth to indicate zero knowledge.

How to Sign "Nothing"
the sign 'nothing' uses both hands. On each hand, press the fingertips together so both hands form teardrop shapes. Bring the hands out to the chest so the backs of the fingers are on the tops of the hands. Shake the two hands back and forth.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually represents the concept of 'zero' or being 'empty.' By forming two teardrop shapes with your hands, you are essentially holding up two zeros. Shaking these zeros back and forth emphasizes the absolute lack of quantity or presence, clearly and visually communicating to the receiver that there is absolutely nothing there.
Signing Tips
Focus on the teardrop or 'O' handshape. Keep the movement relaxed but deliberate. The shaking motion should come from the wrists and slightly from the elbows, moving the hands back and forth a couple of times. To make your sign even more natural, incorporate a slight head shake. This non-manual marker visually reinforces the negative meaning of the word.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is creating a shaking motion that is too large or aggressive. Keep the movement neatly contained near your chest area. Another frequent error is letting the fingers drift apart; remember to keep your fingertips firmly pressed together to maintain the 'zero' shapes throughout the entire sign.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Nothing" in a Sentence
1

I have nothing to do today.

Sign 'today', point to yourself, and then use the two-handed teardrop shape, shaking it back and forth to show you have zero plans.

2

There is nothing left in the fridge.

After signing 'refrigerator', use the two teardrop handshapes and shake them back and forth at your chest to emphasize that it is completely empty.

3

I know nothing about that.

Point to yourself, sign 'know', point to the topic in space, and then shake the two teardrop handshapes back and forth to indicate zero knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to shake my head while signing 'nothing'?

Yes, it is highly recommended! In ASL, non-manual markers like facial expressions are crucial. Shaking your head slightly while shaking your teardrop handshapes reinforces the negative meaning of 'nothing.'

How fast should I shake my hands?

A moderate, relaxed pace is best. You only need to shake your hands back and forth two or three times. Shaking them too fast can look frantic, while too slow might look unnatural.

Is this the same sign as 'none'?

Yes, this two-handed teardrop shaking motion is frequently used interchangeably for both 'nothing' and 'none' in ASL, as they both represent the concept of zero quantity.

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