How to Sign "Thank You Very Much"
To sign 'thank you very much,' use both hands. Start with flat hands, palms facing toward you, and touch the fingertips of both hands to your chin or lips. Then, move both hands forward and slightly down, ending with your palms facing up.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an amplified version of the standard sign for 'thank you.' In ASL, using two hands for a sign that typically uses one is a common way to emphasize the word or show a greater degree of intensity, visually representing a larger expression of gratitude.
Signing Tips
To make this sign look natural, ensure both hands move symmetrically and smoothly. Your facial expression is crucial here—smile and look genuinely appreciative to convey the 'very much' aspect of the phrase.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using only one hand, which simply means 'thank you.' To convey 'thank you very much,' you must use both hands. Also, be careful not to start the sign from your chest; always start with your fingertips at your chin.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Thank You Very Much" in a Sentence
1Thank you very much for your help.
Sign 'help' followed by the two-handed 'thank you very much' sign, making sure to show a sincere, appreciative facial expression.
2I appreciate it, thank you very much.
You can sign 'appreciate' and then transition smoothly into the two-handed 'thank you very much' to emphasize your deep gratitude.
3Thank you very much for the beautiful gift.
After signing 'beautiful' and 'gift,' use the two-handed 'thank you very much' to show how much you love the present.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'thank you' and 'thank you very much'?
'Thank you' is typically signed with one hand moving from the chin forward. 'Thank you very much' uses both hands performing the same motion simultaneously to show extra emphasis and deeper gratitude.
Do I need to mouth the words while signing?
You can mouth 'thank you' or 'thank you very much' to help clarify your meaning, but your facial expression—showing genuine appreciation—is the most important non-manual marker for this sign.
Is this sign appropriate for formal situations?
Yes, this sign is very polite and appropriate for both formal and informal situations. It is the perfect way to express deep gratitude to anyone, whether it's a friend, teacher, or boss.
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