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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Obsolete"

To sign 'obsolete', start with both hands in front of you, palms facing up with your fingers loosely open and slightly curved. Slowly pull your hands apart toward the sides while simultaneously closing your fingers into fists ('S' handshapes). The motion should be smooth, resembling something dissolving or fading away.

Examples Using "Obsolete" in a Sentence

1

That technology is obsolete now.

To express this, you would sign 'TECHNOLOGY', followed by the sign for 'OBSOLETE'. Emphasize the fading away motion to show that the technology is no longer useful or relevant today.

2

My old phone is completely obsolete.

Sign 'MY OLD PHONE', and then use the 'OBSOLETE' sign. You can make the dissolving motion slightly larger or more deliberate to emphasize the concept of being 'completely' outdated.

3

Are these instructions obsolete?

Sign 'THESE INSTRUCTIONS' and then 'OBSOLETE'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward while signing to indicate that you are asking a question.

How to Sign "Obsolete"
To sign 'obsolete', start with both hands in front of you, palms facing up with your fingers loosely open and slightly curved. Slowly pull your hands apart toward the sides while simultaneously closing your fingers into fists ('S' handshapes). The motion should be smooth, resembling something dissolving or fading away.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'obsolete' is highly iconic, meaning it visually represents the concept it describes. It mimics the action of something dissolving, melting, or fading away into nothingness. By starting with open, relaxed hands as if holding an object or idea, and ending with closed, empty fists pulled apart, the sign perfectly captures the essence of an item, technology, or concept losing its presence, value, and usefulness over time.
Signing Tips
To sign 'obsolete' naturally, focus on the smooth transition from open hands to closed fists. The movement should be gradual, representing something slowly disappearing, dissolving, or losing its relevance over time. Keep your facial expression neutral or slightly disappointed to match the context of something no longer being useful. Ensure your palms stay facing upward throughout the entire motion, as turning them over can make the sign look awkward.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is moving their hands too quickly or aggressively. Remember that 'obsolete' implies a gradual fading away or a slow loss of usefulness, so the pulling apart motion should be smooth and controlled, not abrupt. Another frequent error is starting with flat hands instead of loosely curved fingers. The initial handshape should look as if you are gently holding a substance that is about to dissolve.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Obsolete" in a Sentence
1

That technology is obsolete now.

To express this, you would sign 'TECHNOLOGY', followed by the sign for 'OBSOLETE'. Emphasize the fading away motion to show that the technology is no longer useful or relevant today.

2

My old phone is completely obsolete.

Sign 'MY OLD PHONE', and then use the 'OBSOLETE' sign. You can make the dissolving motion slightly larger or more deliberate to emphasize the concept of being 'completely' outdated.

3

Are these instructions obsolete?

Sign 'THESE INSTRUCTIONS' and then 'OBSOLETE'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward while signing to indicate that you are asking a question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for words like 'melt' or 'dissolve'?

Yes, absolutely! This sign is frequently used to mean 'melt', 'dissolve', or 'fade away'. In ASL, signs often rely on visual concepts rather than direct English translations. The context of your sentence will make it clear to the viewer that you mean 'obsolete'.

Does the speed of the sign change its meaning?

Yes, the speed can add nuance to your signing. A slower, drawn-out movement emphasizes a very gradual process of becoming obsolete. A slightly faster movement might imply that something became outdated quickly. For general use, a smooth, moderate pace is best.

Do my palms need to face up the entire time?

Yes, your palms should remain facing upward throughout the sign. You begin with open hands facing up, and as you pull them apart and form fists, the orientation stays the same. Turning your palms downward would make the sign incorrect.

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