How to Sign "Offense"
To sign **offense** (in the sense of offending or insulting someone), start by forming a '1' handshape with your dominant hand, extending your index finger while keeping your other fingers curled. Hold your hand near your face with your palm facing to the side. In a quick, sharp motion, move your hand forward and slightly down, pivoting your wrist so your index finger ends up pointing straight ahead. This sharp, jabbing movement visually represents directing a hurtful remark or causing offense.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign uses the index finger to represent a sharp, pointed remark or action. The quick, jabbing motion outward visually mimics throwing an insult or directing an offensive comment at someone.
Signing Tips
Make sure the forward motion is quick and sharp, like a verbal jab. The sign is directional, meaning you can move it toward the person being offended. If you are the one taking offense, you can reverse the motion so the index finger points back toward your own chest.
Common Mistakes
Using a slow or gentle motion is a common mistake, as it loses the sharp, impactful meaning of an 'offense' or 'insult.' Also, be careful not to confuse this with the sign for 'tell,' which starts directly at the chin and has a much more relaxed forward motion.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Offense" in a Sentence
1I didn't mean to cause offense.
After signing that you didn't mean it, use the sharp forward motion of 'offense' to clarify that you weren't trying to direct a hurtful remark at the other person.
2She took offense to the joke.
Because this sign is directional, you can modify the movement to point inward toward the person receiving the action to show that they took offense.
3His rude behavior was a major offense.
Emphasize the sharp, jabbing motion of the index finger to clearly convey the negative and impactful nature of the offensive behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign used for a sports offense?
No, this sign is used for 'offense' in the sense of an insult or offending someone. The sports term for 'offense' uses a completely different sign involving both hands clashing together.
Can I change the direction of this sign?
Yes! This sign is highly directional. If someone offended you, you can move the index finger inward toward yourself. If you offended someone else, move it outward toward them.
What is the difference between 'offense' and 'tell' in ASL?
While both signs use the '1' handshape, 'tell' starts directly at the chin and moves forward smoothly. 'Offense' or 'insult' starts slightly higher and has a sharper, more forceful jabbing motion to convey a negative impact.
Related ASL Signs
