How to Sign "Scared"
The sign 'scared' uses both hands. Relax both hands and splay the fingers. Bring the hands out by the torso, with one hand higher than the other. Shake both hands. Use your face to make an expression like you're frightened.
Examples Using "Scared" in a Sentence
1
Are you scared of the dark?
Point to the person to sign 'you,' then sign 'scared' by shaking your splayed hands in front of your torso with a frightened expression, followed by the sign for 'dark.' Raise your eyebrows to show it is a yes/no question.
2
The loud noise made me scared.
Sign 'loud' and 'noise,' point to yourself, and then sign 'scared' by shaking your hands with one higher than the other. Make sure your face matches the sudden feeling of fear.
3
Don't be scared, it's just a dog.
Shake your head while signing 'scared' to indicate 'not scared.' Then, sign 'dog.' Keep your facial expression reassuring rather than terrified to match the comforting context of the sentence.
How to Sign "Scared"
The sign 'scared' uses both hands. Relax both hands and splay the fingers. Bring the hands out by the torso, with one hand higher than the other. Shake both hands. Use your face to make an expression like you're frightened.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, meaning it visually represents the concept it describes. The shaking motion of the hands directly mimics the physical trembling, shivering, or shaking that people naturally experience when they are frightened, nervous, or startled.
Signing Tips
Facial expressions are just as important as your hands in ASL! When signing 'scared,' make sure your eyes widen and your face looks genuinely frightened. The intensity of your shaking hands and your facial expression can change the meaning from slightly nervous to absolutely terrified.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is keeping the hands too stiff or rigid. The fingers should be splayed but relaxed so they can naturally shake. Another frequent error is forgetting the facial expression; signing 'scared' with a blank face will confuse the person you are talking to, as the emotion is entirely missing.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Scared" in a Sentence
1Are you scared of the dark?
Point to the person to sign 'you,' then sign 'scared' by shaking your splayed hands in front of your torso with a frightened expression, followed by the sign for 'dark.' Raise your eyebrows to show it is a yes/no question.
2The loud noise made me scared.
Sign 'loud' and 'noise,' point to yourself, and then sign 'scared' by shaking your hands with one higher than the other. Make sure your face matches the sudden feeling of fear.
3Don't be scared, it's just a dog.
Shake your head while signing 'scared' to indicate 'not scared.' Then, sign 'dog.' Keep your facial expression reassuring rather than terrified to match the comforting context of the sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand is higher?
No, it doesn't matter which hand is higher. You can place your dominant hand higher or lower than your non-dominant hand. Just make sure both hands are in front of your torso and shaking.
How do I show that I am terrified versus just a little scared?
You can adjust the intensity of the sign. For 'terrified,' shake your hands more vigorously and make a very exaggerated, frightened facial expression. For 'a little scared,' use a smaller, slower shake and a milder facial expression.
Can I sign this with just one hand?
While casual ASL sometimes uses one-handed variations for convenience, 'scared' is traditionally and most clearly a two-handed sign. Using both hands as described helps convey the full emotion and prevents confusion with other signs.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!