Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Personal"

To sign 'personal', form your dominant hand into a 'P' handshape, with your index finger pointing to the side and your middle finger pointing inward. Bring your hand to your upper chest on your non-dominant side. Tap the tip of your middle finger against your chest twice.

Examples Using "Personal" in a Sentence

1

That is a personal question.

To express this, point to indicate 'that', followed by the sign for 'personal' using the 'P' handshape tapped on your chest. Finish by signing 'question' with your index finger drawing a question mark in the air.

2

I need some personal space.

Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', then sign 'need' with a bent 'X' handshape moving downward. Next, sign 'personal', and conclude by outlining a horizontal area in front of your body to represent 'space'.

3

This is my personal opinion.

Begin with 'this' and 'my' (flat hand on your chest). Then, use the 'P' handshape on your chest for 'personal', and finish with the sign for 'opinion' by moving an 'O' handshape in front of your forehead.

How to Sign "Personal"
To sign 'personal', form your dominant hand into a 'P' handshape, with your index finger pointing to the side and your middle finger pointing inward. Bring your hand to your upper chest on your non-dominant side. Tap the tip of your middle finger against your chest twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a classic example of an initialized sign in ASL, utilizing the 'P' handshape to represent the first letter of the English word 'personal'. By placing and tapping this handshape on the chest—an area of the body deeply associated with oneself, internal feelings, character, and individual identity—the sign visually connects the concept of self with the specific English translation.
Signing Tips
When signing 'personal', ensure your 'P' handshape is clearly formed, with your thumb resting on the side of your middle finger. Your index finger should point horizontally across your body, while your middle finger points inward toward your chest. The movement should be a gentle, deliberate double tap against your upper chest on the non-dominant side. Keep your wrist relaxed to make the motion look natural and fluid.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is confusing the 'P' handshape with a 'K' handshape. Remember that for a 'P', your middle finger must point downward or inward to tap your chest, rather than pointing forward. Another common error is tapping the center of the chest or the dominant side; be sure to cross your hand over slightly to tap the non-dominant side, near your heart, for the correct placement.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Personal" in a Sentence
1

That is a personal question.

To express this, point to indicate 'that', followed by the sign for 'personal' using the 'P' handshape tapped on your chest. Finish by signing 'question' with your index finger drawing a question mark in the air.

2

I need some personal space.

Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', then sign 'need' with a bent 'X' handshape moving downward. Next, sign 'personal', and conclude by outlining a horizontal area in front of your body to represent 'space'.

3

This is my personal opinion.

Begin with 'this' and 'my' (flat hand on your chest). Then, use the 'P' handshape on your chest for 'personal', and finish with the sign for 'opinion' by moving an 'O' handshape in front of your forehead.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'personality'?

Yes, 'personal' and 'personality' are generally signed the exact same way in ASL, using the 'P' handshape tapped on the upper chest. Because ASL relies heavily on context, the surrounding signs and the topic of your conversation will easily clarify to the person you are signing with whether you mean 'personal' or 'personality'.

Can I use this sign to mean 'private'?

While the concepts of 'personal' and 'private' are closely related in English, 'private' is typically signed differently in ASL. To sign 'private', you usually tap an 'A' handshape or the side of your index finger against your lips. It is best to use the 'P' on the chest specifically for 'personal' or 'personality'.

Does it matter which side of my chest I tap?

Yes, placement is an important parameter in ASL. You should cross your dominant hand over slightly to tap the upper chest on your non-dominant side, roughly over your heart. Tapping the dominant side of your chest can feel physically awkward, restrict your movement, and look unnatural to fluent signers.

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