How to Sign "Shut Up"
Take your dominant hand in a modified “c” handshape near the corner of your mouth and then snap your hand out quick into the flattened “o” handshape
Examples Using "Shut Up" in a Sentence
1
Please shut up, I'm trying to study.
Sign 'PLEASE', then execute the quick 'shut up' sign near the corner of your mouth, followed by 'I STUDY'. Use a firm facial expression to show you are serious about needing quiet.
2
He wouldn't shut up during the movie.
Point to the person to establish 'HE', sign 'NOT', and use the 'shut up' sign. Emphasize your annoyance by furrowing your eyebrows and shaking your head slightly.
3
I told him to shut up.
Sign 'I TELL-him', then perform the 'shut up' sign with a sharp, decisive motion to clearly show the frustration and bluntness of your command in the story.
How to Sign "Shut Up"
Take your dominant hand in a modified “c” handshape near the corner of your mouth and then snap your hand out quick into the flattened “o” handshape
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually represents the action it demands. The modified 'C' handshape represents an open mouth, and the sudden snap into the flattened 'O' handshape visually mimics a mouth slamming shut. The quickness of the motion reflects the abrupt nature of the phrase.
Signing Tips
Focus on the speed and sharpness of the motion. The transition from the modified 'C' to the flattened 'O' should be a quick, snapping movement to convey the abruptness of the phrase. Always pair this sign with a stern or frustrated facial expression, as it is a strong command.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the movement too slow or gentle, which can make it look like the sign for 'guess' or 'miss'. Another mistake is placing the hand directly over the center of the mouth instead of near the corner, which obscures your facial expressions.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Shut Up" in a Sentence
1Please shut up, I'm trying to study.
Sign 'PLEASE', then execute the quick 'shut up' sign near the corner of your mouth, followed by 'I STUDY'. Use a firm facial expression to show you are serious about needing quiet.
2He wouldn't shut up during the movie.
Point to the person to establish 'HE', sign 'NOT', and use the 'shut up' sign. Emphasize your annoyance by furrowing your eyebrows and shaking your head slightly.
3I told him to shut up.
Sign 'I TELL-him', then perform the 'shut up' sign with a sharp, decisive motion to clearly show the frustration and bluntness of your command in the story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign considered rude in ASL?
Yes, just like in spoken English, this sign is blunt and can be considered rude or aggressive. If you simply want someone to lower their voice or stop talking politely, it is much better to use the sign for 'quiet' instead.
What is the difference between 'shut up' and 'quiet'?
'Quiet' is signed by crossing your index fingers at your lips and bringing them down and apart, which serves as a polite request. 'Shut up' uses the snapping 'C' to 'O' handshape at the corner of the mouth and is a forceful command.
Do I need to mouth the words 'shut up' while signing?
You don't necessarily need to mouth the English words, but your facial expression must match the intensity of the command. A stern look, furrowed eyebrows, and tightly pressed lips will naturally convey the correct tone.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!