How to Sign "Understand"
To sign 'understand', curl the hand into a fist. Bring the hand up by the temple, with the back of the hand facing outwards. Bring the index finger up while nodding, to show that you do understand.
Examples Using "Understand" in a Sentence
1
I understand the homework.
Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'understand' by flicking your index finger up by your temple while nodding. Finish by signing 'homework'. The nod is essential here to emphasize your positive comprehension.
2
Do you understand?
Point to the person you are asking, then sign 'understand' near your temple. Because this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly instead of just nodding.
3
I don't understand.
Sign 'I', then perform the sign for 'understand', but instead of nodding, shake your head 'no' and furrow your eyebrows. In ASL, the negative headshake changes the meaning of the sign to 'don't understand'.
How to Sign "Understand"
To sign 'understand', curl the hand into a fist. Bring the hand up by the temple, with the back of the hand facing outwards. Bring the index finger up while nodding, to show that you do understand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'understand' is highly iconic and visually represents a 'lightbulb going off' in your brain. The location at the temple connects the sign to the mind, thought, and cognition. The sudden popping up of the index finger from a closed fist visually mimics a sudden spark of comprehension or an idea finally clicking into place.
Signing Tips
Think of this sign as a 'lightbulb' moment. The flick of your index finger should be quick and crisp, representing a sudden realization. Make sure your hand is placed near your temple, which is the location ASL uses for concepts related to the mind. Always pair the manual sign with a clear head nod to confirm that you do, in fact, get it.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is facing their palm outward toward the conversational partner; remember, the back of your hand should face outward, with your palm facing you. Another common error is forgetting the facial expression. Without the head nod, the sign can look robotic or incomplete. Lastly, ensure only your index finger pops up, rather than opening your whole hand.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Understand" in a Sentence
1I understand the homework.
Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'understand' by flicking your index finger up by your temple while nodding. Finish by signing 'homework'. The nod is essential here to emphasize your positive comprehension.
2Do you understand?
Point to the person you are asking, then sign 'understand' near your temple. Because this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly instead of just nodding.
3I don't understand.
Sign 'I', then perform the sign for 'understand', but instead of nodding, shake your head 'no' and furrow your eyebrows. In ASL, the negative headshake changes the meaning of the sign to 'don't understand'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign to say 'I realize'?
Yes! Because the sign visually represents a thought clicking into place in your mind, it is frequently used for related concepts like 'realize,' 'comprehend,' or 'I get it.' The context of your sentence will make the exact English translation clear.
Does it matter which hand I use to sign 'understand'?
You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs like 'understand.' If you are right-handed, place your right fist near your right temple. Keeping this consistent helps your signing look natural and fluent.
How do I show that I am starting to understand something?
To show an ongoing process of comprehension, you can modify the movement. Instead of a single, crisp flick of the index finger, you can repeatedly flick the index finger up and down a few times while nodding gently to mean 'I am understanding' or 'I'm following along.'
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!