How to Sign "Trust"

To sign 'trust', start with both hands open and fingers spread, positioning your dominant hand slightly higher and further out than your non-dominant hand. Bring both hands together in front of your chest while closing them into firm fists, stacking your dominant hand directly on top of your non-dominant hand. The motion should look like you are firmly grabbing onto a vertical rope.

Examples Using "Trust" in a Sentence

1

I trust you completely.

Point to yourself, sign 'trust' with a firm and decisive motion, and then point to the person you are talking to.

2

Do you trust him?

Point to the person you are asking, sign 'trust', and point to the third person while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

3

You can trust me.

Point to the person, sign 'trust', and then point to yourself. You can also move the sign slightly toward yourself to show the direction of trust.

How to Sign "Trust"
To sign 'trust', start with both hands open and fingers spread, positioning your dominant hand slightly higher and further out than your non-dominant hand. Bring both hands together in front of your chest while closing them into firm fists, stacking your dominant hand directly on top of your non-dominant hand. The motion should look like you are firmly grabbing onto a vertical rope.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents grabbing onto a solid rope or pole and holding on tight. This physical act of relying on a sturdy object for support perfectly mirrors the abstract concept of placing your trust in someone.
Signing Tips
Make sure your movement is firm and decisive. The strength of the grabbing motion helps convey the feeling of confidence and reliance inherent in the word 'trust'.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is leaving the hands open or loose at the end of the sign. Ensure both hands close tightly into 'S' handshapes (fists) to accurately show the concept of holding on.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Trust" in a Sentence
1

I trust you completely.

Point to yourself, sign 'trust' with a firm and decisive motion, and then point to the person you are talking to.

2

Do you trust him?

Point to the person you are asking, sign 'trust', and point to the third person while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

3

You can trust me.

Point to the person, sign 'trust', and then point to yourself. You can also move the sign slightly toward yourself to show the direction of trust.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sign 'trust' with just one hand?

No, 'trust' is a two-handed sign. Using both hands to form the stacked fists is necessary to convey the strength and reliance involved in the concept.

Is the sign for 'trust' the same as 'believe'?

They are different signs. While 'trust' involves a grabbing motion in front of your chest, 'believe' starts with a finger touching the forehead before moving down to clasp the other hand.

Does the sign change depending on who is trusting whom?

Yes, 'trust' can be a directional sign. If you trust someone, you can move the grabbing motion slightly toward them. If they trust you, the motion can be pulled slightly toward your own body.

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