How to Sign "Singing"

To sign 'singing', hold your non-dominant arm horizontally across your body. Keep your dominant hand open and flat, and sweep it back and forth over your non-dominant forearm. The graceful, waving motion resembles a conductor directing a choir or the flow of music.

Examples Using "Singing" in a Sentence

1

I enjoy singing.

Point to yourself, sign 'enjoy' by rubbing your chest with flat hands, and then sign 'singing'.

2

He is singing loudly.

Point to 'him', sign 'singing', and then sign 'loud' by pointing to your ear and shaking your fists downward.

3

We are singing a song together.

Sign 'we', sign 'singing', and then sign 'together' by bringing your fists together and moving them in a horizontal circle.

How to Sign "Singing"
To sign 'singing', hold your non-dominant arm horizontally across your body. Keep your dominant hand open and flat, and sweep it back and forth over your non-dominant forearm. The graceful, waving motion resembles a conductor directing a choir or the flow of music.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, visually representing the rhythmic flow of music. The sweeping motion of the dominant hand over the non-dominant arm mimics the graceful movements of a conductor leading an orchestra or choir.
Signing Tips
Keep your movements smooth and rhythmic, just like music. Your dominant hand should glide back and forth over your non-dominant arm without actually touching it. Let your wrist be relaxed to create a natural, flowing motion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the movement too stiff or robotic. Ensure your wrist is flexible and the motion is fluid. Also, avoid resting your dominant hand on your non-dominant arm; it should hover slightly above it.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Singing" in a Sentence
1

I enjoy singing.

Point to yourself, sign 'enjoy' by rubbing your chest with flat hands, and then sign 'singing'.

2

He is singing loudly.

Point to 'him', sign 'singing', and then sign 'loud' by pointing to your ear and shaking your fists downward.

3

We are singing a song together.

Sign 'we', sign 'singing', and then sign 'together' by bringing your fists together and moving them in a horizontal circle.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'singing' the same as 'music'?

Yes, the signs for 'singing', 'sing', 'song', and 'music' are very similar and often use the exact same handshapes and movements. The specific meaning is usually clear from the context of your sentence.

Do I need to touch my arm while signing 'singing'?

No, your dominant hand should hover slightly above your non-dominant arm. It sweeps back and forth in the air without making physical contact.

How do I sign 'singer'?

To sign 'singer', you first perform the sign for 'singing' and then immediately add the 'person' ending by sliding both flat hands downward parallel to each other.

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