How to Sign "Of Course"

To sign 'of course', hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing down. Form a 'U' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your index and middle fingers extended and together. Bring your dominant hand down so the extended fingers firmly strike the back of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Of Course" in a Sentence

1

Of course I will help you!

Sign 'of course' followed by 'I help you' to show your enthusiastic willingness to assist.

2

Are you coming to the party? Of course!

Use 'of course' as a standalone, confident confirmation to answer a yes-or-no question.

3

It is, of course, raining again.

Sign 'of course' to express that an event is entirely expected or typical, matching the tone with an unsurprised facial expression.

How to Sign "Of Course"
To sign 'of course', hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing down. Form a 'U' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your index and middle fingers extended and together. Bring your dominant hand down so the extended fingers firmly strike the back of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is also commonly used for the concepts of 'natural' or 'normal.' The firm placement of the 'U' handshape onto the back of the solid base hand visually conveys a sense of something being firmly established, standard, or entirely expected.
Signing Tips
Make sure your dominant hand uses a clear 'U' handshape with the index and middle fingers kept tightly together. The movement should be a single, firm tap on the back of your non-dominant hand to convey certainty. Pair the sign with a confident facial expression, like an affirmative nod, to emphasize your agreement.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a flat hand instead of the 'U' handshape for your dominant hand, which can confuse the meaning. Another frequent error is tapping the palm of the non-dominant hand rather than the back of it. Ensure your non-dominant palm is facing down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Of Course" in a Sentence
1

Of course I will help you!

Sign 'of course' followed by 'I help you' to show your enthusiastic willingness to assist.

2

Are you coming to the party? Of course!

Use 'of course' as a standalone, confident confirmation to answer a yes-or-no question.

3

It is, of course, raining again.

Sign 'of course' to express that an event is entirely expected or typical, matching the tone with an unsurprised facial expression.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'natural' or 'normal'?

Yes, 'of course', 'natural', and 'normal' share the same sign in ASL. The specific meaning is easily understood through the context of your conversation and your facial expressions.

Can I use this sign to say 'you're welcome'?

While 'of course' can mean 'you're welcome' in spoken English, in ASL it is usually better to use the specific sign for 'you're welcome', or simply sign 'fine' or 'happy' depending on the context.

Does it matter which hand I use as the base?

Yes, you should always use your non-dominant hand as the flat base. Your dominant hand should be the one forming the 'U' handshape and making the active downward movement.

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