How to Sign "Unexpected"
To sign 'unexpected,' you will combine the signs for 'NOT' and 'EXPECT.' First, form an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand (a fist with the thumb resting against the side of your index finger). Place the tip of your thumb under your chin and pull it forward to sign 'NOT.' Next, smoothly transition into the sign for 'EXPECT.' Bring both hands up in front of you with flat handshapes. Face your palms toward each other with your fingers pointing up and slightly angled toward your head.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a literal combination of the concepts 'not' and 'expected.' The first part uses the standard ASL sign for negation, where the thumb flicks forward from the chin to reject or deny something. The second part, 'EXPECT,' visually represents holding a thought, hope, or anticipation in front of your mind. Together, they logically form the idea of something you were not anticipating.
Signing Tips
When signing 'unexpected,' facial expressions are just as important as your hand movements. Since you are describing something you didn't anticipate, raise your eyebrows slightly or show a look of mild surprise during the 'EXPECT' portion of the sign. Make sure to clearly separate the two parts of this compound sign. The 'NOT' should be a distinct, sharp movement forward from the chin before you transition smoothly into the two-handed 'EXPECT' sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is rushing the transition between 'NOT' and 'EXPECT,' causing the handshapes to blur together and making the sign hard to read. Beginners also sometimes forget to use both hands for the 'EXPECT' portion, or they point their fingers forward instead of up. Ensure your palms face each other and your fingers point toward the ceiling to clearly articulate the second half of the sign.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Unexpected" in a Sentence
1The pop quiz was completely unexpected.
To express that the students did not see the test coming and were caught off guard, sign 'quiz' followed by 'unexpected' (NOT EXPECT). Make sure to use a surprised facial expression to emphasize how sudden it was.
2We had unexpected guests arrive at our house.
Use the compound sign 'unexpected' before signing 'guests' and 'arrive' to show that their visit was a complete surprise. Emphasize the 'NOT' portion of the sign to show you truly had no idea they were coming.
3I received an unexpected gift in the mail.
Sign 'gift' and then 'unexpected' to convey that you weren't anticipating the present. You can add a happy, surprised expression during the 'EXPECT' part of the sign to show that it was a pleasant surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use the sign for 'surprise' instead of 'unexpected'?
While 'surprise' and 'unexpected' share similar meanings, they are used differently. 'Surprise' focuses more on the emotional feeling or reaction to an event. 'Unexpected' (signed as NOT EXPECT) specifically describes the factual reality that you didn't anticipate the event happening.
Why are there two parts to this sign?
In ASL, 'unexpected' is often expressed as a compound sign meaning 'not expected.' Combining these two distinct concepts—negation and anticipation—creates the exact meaning of the English word. Compound signs are very common in ASL for expressing complex ideas.
Do my hands need to touch during the 'expect' part of the sign?
No, your hands should not touch. Keep them a few inches apart with your palms facing each other, as if you are holding a box in front of you. Your fingers should point up, slightly angled toward your head.
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