To sign 'present' (as in being in attendance), start with both hands in front of you, palms facing up and fingers slightly relaxed. Bring both hands up and slightly forward in a small, deliberate motion. This is the same sign used for 'here'.
Point to yourself to sign 'I', then use the sign for 'present' to indicate you are here.
Sign 'everyone', then 'present', while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
Point to the person (or their space), sign 'not', and then sign 'present'.
Point to yourself to sign 'I', then use the sign for 'present' to indicate you are here.
Sign 'everyone', then 'present', while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
Point to the person (or their space), sign 'not', and then sign 'present'.
They use completely different signs! 'Present' for attendance uses open hands with palms facing up. 'Present' as a gift uses both hands in 'X' shapes moving forward, as if handing a box to someone.
Yes, the sign for being 'present' in a location is the same as the sign for 'here'. The context of your conversation will make it clear which English word applies.
While the concepts are related, 'now' is typically signed with 'Y' handshapes (thumb and pinky extended) moving downward. It is best to use the distinct signs to keep your meaning clear.
