How to Sign "Places"

To sign 'places', form both hands into 'P' handshapes, with your middle fingers pointing down and your index fingers pointing forward. Start with your middle fingers touching in front of your chest. Move both hands apart, tracing a horizontal circle in the air, and bring the middle fingers back together.

Examples Using "Places" in a Sentence

1

I want to visit new places.

Sign 'I', 'want', 'visit', 'new', and then use the circular 'P' handshape motion for 'places'.

2

There are many beautiful places here.

Sign 'many', 'beautiful', and then 'places' by tracing the horizontal circle with your 'P' hands to show the areas.

3

What places do you like?

Sign 'you', 'like', 'places', and finish with 'what' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.

How to Sign "Places"
To sign 'places', form both hands into 'P' handshapes, with your middle fingers pointing down and your index fingers pointing forward. Start with your middle fingers touching in front of your chest. Move both hands apart, tracing a horizontal circle in the air, and bring the middle fingers back together.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the sign for 'area' or 'space'. It uses the 'P' handshape for the English word 'place' while retaining the circular motion that visually represents outlining a specific area or boundary.
Signing Tips
Keep your wrists relaxed as you trace the circle. The movement should be smooth and horizontal, as if you are outlining an area on a table in front of you. Ensure your 'P' handshapes are clear, with the middle fingers pointing down.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the circle vertical instead of horizontal. Remember that you are outlining a space on the ground or a map, so the movement must stay flat. Another mistake is using 'K' handshapes instead of 'P' handshapes; make sure your middle fingers point down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Places" in a Sentence
1

I want to visit new places.

Sign 'I', 'want', 'visit', 'new', and then use the circular 'P' handshape motion for 'places'.

2

There are many beautiful places here.

Sign 'many', 'beautiful', and then 'places' by tracing the horizontal circle with your 'P' hands to show the areas.

3

What places do you like?

Sign 'you', 'like', 'places', and finish with 'what' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I show the difference between 'place' and 'places'?

Often, the plural is understood from context or by adding a sign like 'many'. You can also sign 'place' in slightly different locations in front of you to emphasize multiple distinct places.

Is the movement a full circle?

Yes, both hands work together to trace a full circle. They start together, move apart and around in their own half-circles, and meet again to complete the shape.

Does it matter which way the circle goes?

Yes, your hands should start together, move outward away from your body, and then circle back inward towards your chest to meet again.

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