How to Sign "Regular"
Form both hands into '1' handshapes with your index fingers extended. Hold your non-dominant hand steady in front of you, pointing forward. With your dominant hand, make a small forward circular motion, then bring the bottom edge of your dominant hand down to strike the top edge of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is closely related to the ASL sign for 'right', 'correct', or 'appropriate'. The added circular motion of the dominant hand visually represents something happening repeatedly, consistently, or in a standard cycle over time. This visual logic naturally evolves the core meaning from 'correct' to 'standard', 'usual', or 'regular'.
Signing Tips
Make sure the circular motion with your dominant hand is distinct before the hands make contact. This sweeping, circular movement is crucial because it distinguishes 'regular' from the sign for 'right' or 'correct', which typically uses a direct, single strike without the circle. Keep your movements relaxed but deliberate.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake for beginners is forgetting the circular motion entirely and just tapping the hands together directly. This will make it look like you are signing 'right' or 'correct' instead of 'regular'. Another frequent error is using flat hands rather than keeping the fingers curled into the '1' handshape.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Regular" in a Sentence
1I ordered my regular coffee.
Sign 'regular' before 'coffee' to indicate it is your usual or standard order. The circular motion emphasizes that this is a consistent, everyday habit.
2We have a regular meeting on Fridays.
Use 'regular' to show that the meeting happens consistently on a set schedule. Follow it with the sign for 'meeting' and then 'Friday'.
3He is just a regular guy.
Sign 'regular' to convey that someone is 'normal' or 'standard'. This is a great way to describe an everyday, average situation or person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'regular' the same sign as 'right' or 'correct'?
They are very similar and use the exact same '1' handshapes! The key difference is the movement. 'Regular' includes a small, forward circular motion with the dominant hand before the hands strike together, whereas 'right' is usually a direct, single tap without the circle.
Can I use this sign for a 'regular' size drink?
Yes, you can absolutely use this sign to indicate a standard or 'regular' size for a drink, meal, or clothing item. It effectively communicates 'standard' or 'average' as opposed to specifying small or large.
Do I have to tap the hands more than once?
Typically, the standard sign for 'regular' involves one distinct circular motion followed by a single, solid strike. However, depending on the context, some signers might use a repeated tapping motion to heavily emphasize the consistency or frequency of an event.
Related ASL Signs