Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Search"

To sign 'search,' form a 'C' handshape with your dominant hand. Bring it up near your face, slightly in front of your eye. Move the 'C' handshape in a couple of small, continuous circles, as if you are looking through a magnifying glass.

Examples Using "Search" in a Sentence

1

I need to search for my keys.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I,' sign 'NEED,' and then perform the 'search' sign. Finish by signing 'MY' and 'KEYS.' The circular motion of the 'search' sign perfectly captures the action of looking around your house for a lost item.

2

Did you search the internet?

Point to the person for 'YOU,' sign 'INTERNET,' and then use the 'search' sign. Because this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly while signing to indicate that you are asking a question.

3

We are searching for a new house.

Sign 'WE,' then use the 'search' sign, followed by 'NEW' and 'HOUSE.' To show that this is an ongoing, extensive search rather than a quick look, you can make the circles slightly larger and repeat the motion a few extra times.

How to Sign "Search"
To sign 'search,' form a 'C' handshape with your dominant hand. Bring it up near your face, slightly in front of your eye. Move the 'C' handshape in a couple of small, continuous circles, as if you are looking through a magnifying glass.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'search' is a great example of an iconic ASL sign, meaning its visual form directly relates to its meaning. The 'C' handshape positioned near the eye mimics the physical act of holding a tool used for looking closely, such as a magnifying glass, a monocle, or a spyglass. The continuous circular motion represents the action of scanning an environment, panning your vision around a room, or thoroughly examining an area to find a missing item.
Signing Tips
When signing 'search,' imagine you are holding a magnifying glass right up to your eye. Keep the 'C' handshape steady and ensure the circular motion is smooth and continuous. The circles should be relatively small and localized near your face, rather than wide, sweeping arm movements. Remember to use your facial expressions to match the intensity of your search—if you are desperately looking for something important, furrow your eyebrows to show that focus and concern.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is moving their hand too far away from their face, which lessens the visual connection to the eye and the concept of looking. Another common error is closing the hand into an 'O' shape instead of keeping a clear, open 'C' handshape. Finally, be careful not to make the circles too large or erratic; the movement should be controlled and deliberate to clearly communicate the act of searching.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Search" in a Sentence
1

I need to search for my keys.

To sign this, point to yourself for 'I,' sign 'NEED,' and then perform the 'search' sign. Finish by signing 'MY' and 'KEYS.' The circular motion of the 'search' sign perfectly captures the action of looking around your house for a lost item.

2

Did you search the internet?

Point to the person for 'YOU,' sign 'INTERNET,' and then use the 'search' sign. Because this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly while signing to indicate that you are asking a question.

3

We are searching for a new house.

Sign 'WE,' then use the 'search' sign, followed by 'NEW' and 'HOUSE.' To show that this is an ongoing, extensive search rather than a quick look, you can make the circles slightly larger and repeat the motion a few extra times.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'search' the same sign as 'look for'?

Yes! In ASL, this single sign is used for 'search,' 'look for,' 'seek,' and 'examine.' ASL is a concept-based language, so the same visual concept of scanning with a magnifying glass applies to all these English phrases. The context of your sentence will clarify the exact meaning.

Does it matter which way I circle my hand?

Generally, the hand circles inward toward the nose and then outward, but the exact direction is less critical than the continuous, scanning motion itself. Focus more on maintaining a clear 'C' handshape near your eye and keeping the movement smooth and deliberate.

How do I show that I searched for a really long time?

You can modify the sign to show duration or effort. Make the circles larger, repeat the motion more times, and slow it down. Add a facial expression that shows exhaustion or intense focus, like furrowing your brows or slightly puffing your cheeks.

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