To sign 'speaking' (or 'talk'), form your dominant hand into a '4' handshape, with your four fingers extended and slightly spread, and your thumb tucked in. Bring your hand up to your face with your palm facing sideways. Tap the side of your index finger against your chin or lower lip twice.
Point to yourself, sign 'speaking' by tapping your chin with your '4' handshape, and then sign 'friend'.
Sign 'please', followed by 'stop', and then use the 'speaking' sign to clearly indicate what needs to stop.
Sign 'today', followed by 'speaking', and end with the sign for 'who' while furrowing your eyebrows to ask the question.
Point to yourself, sign 'speaking' by tapping your chin with your '4' handshape, and then sign 'friend'.
Sign 'please', followed by 'stop', and then use the 'speaking' sign to clearly indicate what needs to stop.
Sign 'today', followed by 'speaking', and end with the sign for 'who' while furrowing your eyebrows to ask the question.
'Speaking' or 'talking' uses the '4' handshape tapping the chin, representing an ongoing conversation or a continuous flow of words. 'Say' or 'tell' typically uses a single index finger pointing outward from the chin, indicating a specific, single statement.
Yes! In ASL, the sign for 'speaking' is the exact same sign used for 'talk' or 'talking'. The context of your sentence will make the exact English translation clear.
You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs like 'speaking'. If you are right-handed, use your right hand; if you are left-handed, use your left hand. This keeps your signing consistent and easy to read.
