Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Perform"

To sign "perform," start with both hands in "A" handshapes, keeping your thumbs pointing up and your palms facing your chest. Hold your hands in front of your upper body. Move both hands in alternating circular motions, rolling them backward toward your chest, then down and forward.

Examples Using "Perform" in a Sentence

1

She will perform in the play tonight.

Sign "perform" using the alternating circular motion, followed by "tonight" to establish when the event is happening. The continuous movement of the hands conveys the ongoing action of acting on stage.

2

I love to perform.

Point to yourself for "I," sign "love" by crossing your arms over your chest, and then use the alternating "A" handshapes for "perform." Keep your facial expression enthusiastic to match the sentence.

3

The students performed well.

Sign "student," then "perform," and finish with "good" or "well." Keep the circular motion of "perform" smooth and steady to show that the performance was executed confidently.

How to Sign "Perform"
To sign "perform," start with both hands in "A" handshapes, keeping your thumbs pointing up and your palms facing your chest. Hold your hands in front of your upper body. Move both hands in alternating circular motions, rolling them backward toward your chest, then down and forward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "perform" is the same sign used for "act," "drama," or "theater." It uses the "A" handshapes to represent characters or actors on a stage. The alternating, continuous circular motion towards the body visually represents the dynamic action, energy, and ongoing dialogue involved in a theatrical performance.
Signing Tips
When signing "perform," think of the movement like pedaling a bicycle backward with your hands. Keep your "A" handshapes relaxed but distinct, ensuring your thumbs are clearly pointing up. Keep the movement contained in the space right in front of your chest so the sign looks natural and doesn't drift too far out or too low.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake is moving both hands in unison (at the exact same time) instead of alternating them. Another frequent error is rolling the hands forward away from the body instead of backward toward the chest. Finally, be sure to use "A" handshapes rather than flat hands.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Perform" in a Sentence
1

She will perform in the play tonight.

Sign "perform" using the alternating circular motion, followed by "tonight" to establish when the event is happening. The continuous movement of the hands conveys the ongoing action of acting on stage.

2

I love to perform.

Point to yourself for "I," sign "love" by crossing your arms over your chest, and then use the alternating "A" handshapes for "perform." Keep your facial expression enthusiastic to match the sentence.

3

The students performed well.

Sign "student," then "perform," and finish with "good" or "well." Keep the circular motion of "perform" smooth and steady to show that the performance was executed confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for "perform" the same as "act"?

Yes! In ASL, the sign for "perform" is the exact same sign used for "act," "drama," and "theater." The context of your sentence will make it clear to the person you are signing with which specific English concept you mean.

Do my hands move together or alternate?

Your hands should alternate. As your right hand moves up and toward your chest, your left hand should be moving down and away. It creates a continuous, alternating cycle rather than a synchronized movement.

Which way should my thumbs point?

Your thumbs should point generally upward and slightly back toward your body as you form the "A" handshapes. Make sure they rest naturally against the side of your index fingers and don't stick out to the sides.

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