How to Sign "Store"
Extend both arms out between shoulder and elbow height and use a flattened "O" hand shape each hand, with the palms toward the ground. Simultaneously contract both wrists upward in a small motion, two times for "store" or just once for "sell."
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is visually rooted in the concept of a shopkeeper holding up an item, like a garment, to display it to a customer. The flattened 'O' hands mimic holding the fabric. In ASL, noun-verb pairs are very common. The noun ('store' or 'shop') uses a smaller, repeated double motion, while the related verb ('sell') uses a single, larger motion.
Signing Tips
To sign 'store' clearly, focus on keeping your arms relatively still and letting your wrists do all the work. The movement should be a crisp, double upward flick. Make sure your hands are in a clear flattened 'O' shape—imagine you are lightly gripping the handle of a shopping cart or holding up a piece of clothing by the shoulders to show a customer.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake is doing the upward wrist motion only once. In ASL, a single motion changes the meaning of the word to the verb 'sell'. Another mistake is moving your entire arm up and down instead of isolating the movement to just your wrists. Finally, be careful not to close your hands into tight fists; keep them in the flattened 'O' shape.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Store" in a Sentence
1I am going to the store.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'go', and then perform the double wrist-flick motion with your flattened 'O' hands to sign 'store'.
2Where is the clothing store?
Sign 'clothes', then 'store' by flicking your wrists up twice. Finish with 'where' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a 'wh-' question.
3He owns a pet store.
Sign 'he', 'have', 'pet', and finish with the double motion for 'store'. Make sure your palms are facing the ground before you flick your wrists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I avoid confusing 'store' with 'sell'?
Pay close attention to the movement. 'Store' is a noun, so it gets a double, slightly smaller movement. 'Sell' is a verb, so it gets a single, distinct upward flick of the wrists.
Do my palms face up or down?
Your palms should face toward the ground when you start the sign. As you pivot your wrists upward, your fingertips will point forward and slightly up.
Can I use this sign for any type of store?
Yes! This is the general sign for any store or shop. You can specify the type of store by signing the category first, like 'food store' for a grocery store or 'book store' for a bookshop.
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