How to Sign "Share"

Both hands should be the "B" hand shape with the thumb extended. Place one hand over the other at right angles so that a pinky is above the index finger of the other hand and slide it back and forth so that the pinky of the first hand goes from the tip of the index finger of the other hand for the thumb and back again as if to divide something.

Examples Using "Share" in a Sentence

1

Can we share the pizza?

Sign 'pizza', then use the 'share' sign by sliding your dominant flat hand back and forth over your non-dominant flat hand. Raise your eyebrows at the end to indicate a yes/no question.

2

I like to share my toys.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'like', then perform the back-and-forth sliding motion for 'share', followed by the sign for 'toys'. Keep your movements smooth to show a general habit.

3

Please share the book with him.

Sign 'please', then 'share' using the sweeping back-and-forth motion on your base hand. Finish by signing 'book' and pointing to the person you want them to share with.

How to Sign "Share"
Both hands should be the "B" hand shape with the thumb extended. Place one hand over the other at right angles so that a pinky is above the index finger of the other hand and slide it back and forth so that the pinky of the first hand goes from the tip of the index finger of the other hand for the thumb and back again as if to divide something.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'share' is highly visual and iconic. The non-dominant hand represents a whole object or a collection of items. The dominant hand acts like a divider or a tool, sweeping back and forth to separate the whole into different portions. By moving back and forth, the sign visually captures the concept of distributing parts of something to different people, perfectly illustrating the act of sharing.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat like a table or a cutting board. Your dominant hand does all the moving. Make sure your hands are at a clear right angle, forming a cross shape. The motion should be a smooth, sweeping slide back and forth along the edge of your base hand's index finger, not a harsh chopping motion. Think of it as gently dividing a pile of something into equal parts for everyone.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a harsh, downward chopping motion instead of a smooth slide. Chopping makes it look more like the sign for 'cut' or 'divide' in a mathematical sense. Another frequent error is moving both hands at the same time; remember that your non-dominant hand should remain perfectly still while your dominant hand sweeps back and forth over it. Finally, ensure your thumbs are extended, not tucked in.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Share" in a Sentence
1

Can we share the pizza?

Sign 'pizza', then use the 'share' sign by sliding your dominant flat hand back and forth over your non-dominant flat hand. Raise your eyebrows at the end to indicate a yes/no question.

2

I like to share my toys.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'like', then perform the back-and-forth sliding motion for 'share', followed by the sign for 'toys'. Keep your movements smooth to show a general habit.

3

Please share the book with him.

Sign 'please', then 'share' using the sweeping back-and-forth motion on your base hand. Finish by signing 'book' and pointing to the person you want them to share with.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move the sign toward the person I am sharing with?

Yes! 'Share' is a directional sign. While the standard dictionary form is signed right in front of you, you can sweep the motion outward toward another person to mean 'I share with you,' or sweep it toward yourself to mean 'share with me.'

Does it matter which hand is on top?

Yes, your dominant hand should always be the one on top doing the sliding motion. Your non-dominant hand acts as the stationary base. If you are right-handed, your right hand slides back and forth over your left hand.

Is this the same sign used for sharing a post on social media?

Yes, modern ASL speakers frequently use this exact sign to talk about sharing a link, a photo, or a post online. The concept of distributing something to others applies perfectly to both physical objects and digital content.

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