How to Sign "Really"
to sign 'really', make a fist with the dominant hand, leaving the index finger extended. bring the hand up so the side of the index finger rests against the lower lip. pull the hand out away from the face.
Examples Using "Really" in a Sentence
1
Are you really going to the party?
Sign 'really' by pulling your index finger away from your lower lip, then sign 'you go party'. Make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to show it is a yes/no question!
2
I am really tired today.
Use 'really' here to emphasize your feeling. Sign 'I really tired today', using a strong, deliberate outward motion from your lip for 'really' to show the intensity of your exhaustion.
3
That is a really beautiful car.
Sign 'that car really beautiful'. When pulling your index finger away from your lip for 'really', nod your head slightly to emphasize that it is truly a beautiful vehicle.
How to Sign "Really"
to sign 'really', make a fist with the dominant hand, leaving the index finger extended. bring the hand up so the side of the index finger rests against the lower lip. pull the hand out away from the face.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'really' is the exact same as the sign for 'true'. The movement of the index finger coming straight out from the mouth visually represents speaking the truth or words coming directly and straightforwardly from the lips. It symbolizes that what is being said is a straight fact, moving forward without any twists, turns, or deception.
Signing Tips
To make the sign for 'really' look natural, ensure the movement is a crisp, straight line moving directly outward from your lower lip. Your facial expressions are just as important as your hands here! If you are asking 'Really?', raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward. If you are stating 'It is really good,' nod your head affirmatively as you pull your index finger away from your face.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is curving the movement downward or making an arc instead of a straight line. The index finger should move straight out from the lower lip. Another mistake is pointing the tip of the index finger at the face; remember that the side of the finger should rest against the lip. Finally, beginners often forget to use facial expressions, which are crucial for distinguishing between asking a question and making a statement.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Really" in a Sentence
1Are you really going to the party?
Sign 'really' by pulling your index finger away from your lower lip, then sign 'you go party'. Make sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to show it is a yes/no question!
2I am really tired today.
Use 'really' here to emphasize your feeling. Sign 'I really tired today', using a strong, deliberate outward motion from your lip for 'really' to show the intensity of your exhaustion.
3That is a really beautiful car.
Sign 'that car really beautiful'. When pulling your index finger away from your lip for 'really', nod your head slightly to emphasize that it is truly a beautiful vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'really' the same as 'true'?
Yes! In ASL, the sign where you pull your index finger straight out from your lower lip is used for 'really', 'true', 'sure', and 'certain'. The exact English translation depends on the context of your sentence and your facial expressions.
How do I show the difference between asking 'Really?' and saying 'Really!'?
The difference is entirely in your face! To ask 'Really?', raise your eyebrows, widen your eyes, and lean in slightly. To state 'Really!' or confirm something is true, nod your head firmly while making the sign.
Should my finger actually touch my lip, or just be near it?
The side of your index finger should gently touch your lower lip or the area right below the lip before you pull it straight outward. Starting with physical contact helps anchor the sign and makes the straight outward motion look much clearer.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!