How to Sign "Unusual"

To sign 'unusual,' form a 'C' handshape with your dominant hand. Start with your hand near the side of your face on your non-dominant side, with your palm facing across your face. Move your hand across your face to your dominant side in a slight arc or wavy motion.

Examples Using "Unusual" in a Sentence

1

That is a very unusual color.

Sign 'unusual' by moving the 'C' handshape across your face, followed by the sign for 'color,' while using a puzzled facial expression to emphasize how different it is.

2

It is unusual for him to be late.

Establish the context of him being late, then use the sign for 'unusual' to show that this behavior is out of the ordinary for him.

3

I saw an unusual animal today.

Sign 'today,' 'I,' 'see,' 'unusual,' and 'animal.' Make sure your facial expression matches the feeling of seeing something strange or unexpected.

How to Sign "Unusual"
To sign 'unusual,' form a 'C' handshape with your dominant hand. Start with your hand near the side of your face on your non-dominant side, with your palm facing across your face. Move your hand across your face to your dominant side in a slight arc or wavy motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'unusual' uses a 'C' handshape moving across your field of vision. This motion is thought to represent looking at something from a skewed or different perspective, visually capturing the idea of something being strange, weird, or out of the ordinary.
Signing Tips
When signing 'unusual,' your facial expressions are just as important as your hands. Furrow your eyebrows or look slightly puzzled to convey the feeling of something being out of the ordinary. Keep the 'C' handshape consistent as it moves across your face.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is touching your face while making the sign. Your hand should stay a few inches away from your face as it moves. Additionally, beginners often forget to use a questioning or puzzled facial expression, which can make the sign feel flat.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Unusual" in a Sentence
1

That is a very unusual color.

Sign 'unusual' by moving the 'C' handshape across your face, followed by the sign for 'color,' while using a puzzled facial expression to emphasize how different it is.

2

It is unusual for him to be late.

Establish the context of him being late, then use the sign for 'unusual' to show that this behavior is out of the ordinary for him.

3

I saw an unusual animal today.

Sign 'today,' 'I,' 'see,' 'unusual,' and 'animal.' Make sure your facial expression matches the feeling of seeing something strange or unexpected.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'unusual' the same sign as 'strange' or 'weird'?

Yes! This sign is commonly used to mean 'strange,' 'weird,' 'odd,' or 'unusual.' The exact English translation you use will depend entirely on the context of your conversation.

Does my hand need to touch my face?

No, your hand should not touch your face. Keep your 'C' handshape a few inches away from your face as you move it from the non-dominant side to the dominant side.

Can I sign this with my left hand if I am left-handed?

Absolutely. If you are left-handed, use your left hand to form the 'C' shape. Start on the right side of your face and move the hand across to the left side.

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