How to Sign "Support"

To sign 'support', form both hands into 'S' handshapes (closed fists). Place your dominant fist directly underneath your non-dominant fist. Push your dominant fist up against the bottom of your non-dominant fist, moving both hands slightly upward together. This motion visually represents holding up or supporting something.

Examples Using "Support" in a Sentence

1

I support your decision.

Sign 'I', then sign 'support', followed by 'your' and 'decision'. You can move the 'support' sign slightly forward to show you are giving support to the other person.

2

She needs my support.

Sign 'she', 'needs', 'my', and 'support'. To show you are giving her support, move the sign from your body toward the space where you established 'she'.

3

Thank you for your support.

Sign 'thank you', 'your', and 'support'. If they supported you, you can bring the 'support' sign slightly toward your own body to indicate the support was received.

How to Sign "Support"
To sign 'support', form both hands into 'S' handshapes (closed fists). Place your dominant fist directly underneath your non-dominant fist. Push your dominant fist up against the bottom of your non-dominant fist, moving both hands slightly upward together. This motion visually represents holding up or supporting something.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a great example of iconic visual logic in ASL. The dominant hand acts as a pillar or foundation, physically propping up and lifting the non-dominant hand. This perfectly mirrors the concept of holding something up, backing an idea, or being a foundation for someone.
Signing Tips
Keep your fists stacked firmly together during the upward motion. The dominant hand should be the one on the bottom doing the lifting, as it represents the active provider of the support.
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes tap their fists together repeatedly instead of maintaining contact and pushing upward once. Another mistake is putting the non-dominant hand on the bottom.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Support" in a Sentence
1

I support your decision.

Sign 'I', then sign 'support', followed by 'your' and 'decision'. You can move the 'support' sign slightly forward to show you are giving support to the other person.

2

She needs my support.

Sign 'she', 'needs', 'my', and 'support'. To show you are giving her support, move the sign from your body toward the space where you established 'she'.

3

Thank you for your support.

Sign 'thank you', 'your', and 'support'. If they supported you, you can bring the 'support' sign slightly toward your own body to indicate the support was received.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'support' a directional sign?

Yes! 'Support' can be modified to show who is supporting whom. If you support someone, move the sign toward them. If they support you, move the sign toward yourself.

Can this sign be used for financial support?

Yes, this sign is versatile. It can mean emotional backing, physical support, or financial support. The context of your conversation will clarify the specific meaning.

Do I have to use 'S' handshapes?

Yes, the standard sign for 'support' uses 'S' handshapes (fists) for both hands. Using open hands or other shapes changes the meaning or makes the sign unclear.

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