How to Sign "Thursday"
To sign 'Thursday', make the dominant hand into a fist, with the middle and index fingers outstretched to make the H hand shape. Rotate the hand in a small circle.
Examples Using "Thursday" in a Sentence
1
I will see you on Thursday.
Sign 'see', point to the person you are talking to, and then form your dominant hand into the 'H' shape, rotating it in a small circle to sign 'Thursday'.
2
My birthday is this Thursday.
Sign 'my' and 'birthday', then execute the sign for 'Thursday' by making a small, controlled circle with your outstretched index and middle fingers.
3
Is the test on Tuesday or Thursday?
This is a great way to practice the difference! Sign 'test', then 'Tuesday' (using a 'T' handshape in a circle), 'or', and finally 'Thursday' using the 'H' handshape in a circle.
How to Sign "Thursday"
To sign 'Thursday', make the dominant hand into a fist, with the middle and index fingers outstretched to make the H hand shape. Rotate the hand in a small circle.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
In ASL, the days of the week are typically signed using the first letter of the word moving in a small circle, representing the continuous cycle of the calendar. However, since both Tuesday and Thursday start with the letter 'T', ASL uses the 'T' handshape for Tuesday and the second letter, 'H', for Thursday to easily distinguish between the two.
Signing Tips
When signing 'Thursday', keep your wrist relaxed. The circular motion should come entirely from your wrist, not your elbow or shoulder. Keep your index and middle fingers pressed together and pointing slightly upward and forward. Ensure the circle is small and controlled, about the size of a baseball, to make your signing look natural and fluent.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake is using the 'T' handshape instead of the 'H' handshape. Because 'Tuesday' already uses the 'T', signing 'Thursday' with a 'T' will cause confusion. Another frequent error is making the circular motion too large by moving the entire arm; remember to isolate the movement to just your wrist.
Regional Variations
While the circular 'H' handshape is the most widely accepted standard, you may occasionally see signers use a 'T' handshape that quickly transitions into an 'H' handshape, moving in a small downward or circular motion. However, sticking to the circular 'H' is best for beginners.
Examples Using "Thursday" in a Sentence
1I will see you on Thursday.
Sign 'see', point to the person you are talking to, and then form your dominant hand into the 'H' shape, rotating it in a small circle to sign 'Thursday'.
2My birthday is this Thursday.
Sign 'my' and 'birthday', then execute the sign for 'Thursday' by making a small, controlled circle with your outstretched index and middle fingers.
3Is the test on Tuesday or Thursday?
This is a great way to practice the difference! Sign 'test', then 'Tuesday' (using a 'T' handshape in a circle), 'or', and finally 'Thursday' using the 'H' handshape in a circle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Thursday signed with an 'H' instead of a 'T'?
Since Tuesday and Thursday both begin with the letter 'T', ASL uses the 'T' handshape for Tuesday. To prevent confusion, Thursday is signed using its second letter, 'H'.
How big should the circle be?
The circle should be quite small, roughly the size of a baseball or tennis ball. The movement should be isolated to your wrist rather than using your whole arm.
Which direction should the circle go?
Most signers rotate their hand inward toward their body at the top of the circle, and then outward at the bottom. However, the exact direction is less important than maintaining a clear 'H' handshape and a small wrist movement.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!