How to Sign "Sex"
To make the sign sex, take your dominant hand in the X handshape and place it on your cheek on your dominant side, then pull your hand downward on your cheek.
Examples Using "Sex" in a Sentence
1
We are learning about sex education in health class.
Sign 'sex' by pulling the 'X' handshape down your cheek, followed by the sign for 'education' (pulling 'D' hands outward from the head) and 'class' (making a circle with 'C' hands).
2
What is the sex of the new baby?
Use the 'X' handshape pulled down your cheek for 'sex,' then sign 'baby' by cradling your arms. Remember to furrow your eyebrows at the end to indicate a 'wh-' question.
3
Please fill out your age and sex on the form.
Sign 'age' by pulling an 'O' handshape down from your chin, then sign 'sex' by dragging the 'X' handshape down your dominant cheek, followed by the sign for 'form' or 'paper'.
How to Sign "Sex"
To make the sign sex, take your dominant hand in the X handshape and place it on your cheek on your dominant side, then pull your hand downward on your cheek.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'sex' is located on the cheek, an area of the face often associated with signs related to identity, age, and gender in ASL. The 'X' handshape is an initialized sign, representing the letter 'X' from the English word 'sex,' making it a clear and direct translation used in educational and demographic contexts.
Signing Tips
When signing 'sex,' ensure your 'X' handshape is clearly formed by curling your index finger while keeping your thumb tucked. The movement should be a single, smooth downward stroke along the side of your cheek. Keep your facial expression neutral, as this is a standard, clinical sign used in medical and educational settings.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the wrong handshape, such as a straight index finger ('1' handshape) instead of the curled 'X' handshape. Beginners also sometimes tap the cheek instead of using a continuous downward pulling motion. Make sure the knuckle of the curled index finger maintains contact with the cheek as it moves down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Sex" in a Sentence
1We are learning about sex education in health class.
Sign 'sex' by pulling the 'X' handshape down your cheek, followed by the sign for 'education' (pulling 'D' hands outward from the head) and 'class' (making a circle with 'C' hands).
2What is the sex of the new baby?
Use the 'X' handshape pulled down your cheek for 'sex,' then sign 'baby' by cradling your arms. Remember to furrow your eyebrows at the end to indicate a 'wh-' question.
3Please fill out your age and sex on the form.
Sign 'age' by pulling an 'O' handshape down from your chin, then sign 'sex' by dragging the 'X' handshape down your dominant cheek, followed by the sign for 'form' or 'paper'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign mean gender or the physical act?
This specific sign (the 'X' handshape pulled down the cheek) is primarily used to mean biological sex or gender. It is commonly used in medical, educational, or demographic contexts, like asking the sex of a baby or filling out a form.
Do I use my right or left hand?
You should always use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, form the 'X' handshape with your right hand and pull it down your right cheek. If you are left-handed, use your left hand on your left cheek.
How hard should I press on my cheek?
You do not need to press hard. A light, brushing contact with the side or knuckle of your curled index finger is perfect. The focus is on the smooth downward motion, not the pressure.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!