How to Sign "Original"

To sign *original*, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you, with the palm facing your dominant side and fingers pointing forward. Form an 'O' handshape with your dominant hand. Bring your dominant hand forward to touch the fingertips of the 'O' handshape against the center of your non-dominant palm.

Examples Using "Original" in a Sentence

1

This is an original painting.

Sign 'THIS', 'PAINTING', then use the sign for 'ORIGINAL' to indicate it is not a copy.

2

I prefer the original movie.

Sign 'I', 'PREFER', 'ORIGINAL', and 'MOVIE' to express your preference for the first release.

3

Is this your original idea?

Sign 'THIS', 'YOUR', 'ORIGINAL', and 'IDEA', making sure to raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Original"
To sign *original*, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you, with the palm facing your dominant side and fingers pointing forward. Form an 'O' handshape with your dominant hand. Bring your dominant hand forward to touch the fingertips of the 'O' handshape against the center of your non-dominant palm.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is initialized, meaning it uses the first letter of the English word ('O' for 'original'). It places the 'O' against the flat palm, which is a common ASL location for abstract concepts related to foundations, rules, or documents.
Signing Tips
Make sure your 'O' handshape is clearly formed with your fingertips touching your thumb. Keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat, acting as a clear base for the dominant hand to contact.
Common Mistakes
Using an index finger instead of an 'O' handshape, which changes the sign to 'show' or 'first'. Also, avoid moving the non-dominant hand; it should remain stationary while the dominant hand moves.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Original" in a Sentence
1

This is an original painting.

Sign 'THIS', 'PAINTING', then use the sign for 'ORIGINAL' to indicate it is not a copy.

2

I prefer the original movie.

Sign 'I', 'PREFER', 'ORIGINAL', and 'MOVIE' to express your preference for the first release.

3

Is this your original idea?

Sign 'THIS', 'YOUR', 'ORIGINAL', and 'IDEA', making sure to raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for 'origin'?

Yes, this sign is frequently used to mean both 'original' and 'origin' depending on the context of your sentence.

Why is the non-dominant hand flat?

In ASL, a flat non-dominant palm often represents a surface, page, or foundation. Placing an initialized handshape on it is a common way to sign abstract concepts.

Is this the same as the sign for 'first'?

No, while the meanings are related, 'first' is typically signed using an index finger or by striking the thumb. 'Original' uses the 'O' handshape to specify the exact concept.

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