How to Sign "Reward"

Form both hands into "X" handshapes, with your index fingers hooked and thumbs resting against your curled fingers. Start with your hands near your upper chest or shoulders, palms facing each other. Move both hands forward and slightly down in a deliberate arc, as if you are handing a prize or gift to someone.

Examples Using "Reward" in a Sentence

1

She received a reward for her hard work.

To sign this, you would first establish the concept of "hard work." Then, because she is receiving the reward, you would start the "reward" sign slightly away from her body and move it toward her to show the direction of the action.

2

I will reward you if you finish your chores.

After signing "finish chores," you will use the directional nature of the "reward" sign. Start the "X" handshapes near your own chest and move them forward toward the person you are talking to, showing that you are the one giving the reward.

3

The dog got a treat as a reward.

You can sign "dog" and "treat," and then use the "reward" sign to emphasize that the treat was earned. Move the "reward" sign downward toward the dog's level to accurately reflect giving a prize to your pet.

How to Sign "Reward"
Form both hands into "X" handshapes, with your index fingers hooked and thumbs resting against your curled fingers. Start with your hands near your upper chest or shoulders, palms facing each other. Move both hands forward and slightly down in a deliberate arc, as if you are handing a prize or gift to someone.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The "X" handshape used in this sign is historically associated with grasping or holding a small, valuable object, such as a medal, a ribbon, or a special prize. The forward, arcing motion of the hands visually represents the physical act of presenting or handing over that earned prize to someone. By mimicking the real-world action of giving a physical token of appreciation, the sign perfectly captures the concept of rewarding someone for their efforts.
Signing Tips
The sign for "reward" is a directional or agreeing verb, which means you can change its starting and ending points to clearly show who is giving and who is receiving the reward. If you are rewarding someone else, move the sign from your body outward toward them. If you are the one receiving a reward, start the sign further away from your body and move it inward toward your own chest. This makes your signing much more dynamic and clear!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using flat hands or closed fists instead of the specific "X" handshape. Make sure your index fingers are clearly hooked with your thumbs resting against your curled fingers. Another frequent error is keeping the hands static or moving them in a straight, robotic line. The forward, arcing motion is essential because it visually conveys the natural action of physically presenting or handing over a reward to someone.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Reward" in a Sentence
1

She received a reward for her hard work.

To sign this, you would first establish the concept of "hard work." Then, because she is receiving the reward, you would start the "reward" sign slightly away from her body and move it toward her to show the direction of the action.

2

I will reward you if you finish your chores.

After signing "finish chores," you will use the directional nature of the "reward" sign. Start the "X" handshapes near your own chest and move them forward toward the person you are talking to, showing that you are the one giving the reward.

3

The dog got a treat as a reward.

You can sign "dog" and "treat," and then use the "reward" sign to emphasize that the treat was earned. Move the "reward" sign downward toward the dog's level to accurately reflect giving a prize to your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for "reward" the same as "gift"?

They are very similar and often use the exact same "X" handshapes and forward motion. However, "reward" is usually signed with a slightly more deliberate, pronounced arc to emphasize presenting something that was earned, whereas "gift" can sometimes be signed with a lighter or quicker movement.

Can I use this sign to mean "award" or "prize"?

Yes, absolutely! The sign for "reward" is commonly used interchangeably with the words "award" or "prize." The surrounding context of your sentence will make it clear to the listener whether you are talking about a formal award ceremony or a casual reward for good behavior.

Does it matter which direction I move my hands?

Yes, the direction is very important because "reward" is a directional sign. You should always move the sign from the giver to the receiver. If you are giving the reward, move it away from yourself. If you are getting the reward, move it toward your body.

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