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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Went"

To sign “Went”, it is similar sign for “go” which is two “One” handshapes or only extend index fingers moving forward depend on the location you mention about. Additional to this is twist your open fingers handshape which is similar to “finish” All together you can think of signing “GO FINISH”

Examples Using "Went" in a Sentence

1

I went to the store.

Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'GO' by moving your index fingers forward toward the imaginary store. Follow up immediately with the 'FINISH' sign by twisting your open hands to show the action is completed.

2

She went home.

Point to the person for 'she', sign 'GO' by moving your index fingers toward the established location of 'home', and then twist your open hands outward for 'FINISH' to indicate she has already left.

3

We went to the park yesterday.

Sign 'YESTERDAY' and 'WE', then use your index fingers to sign 'GO' forward. End with the 'FINISH' hand twist to emphasize that the trip to the park is a completed past action.

How to Sign "Went"
To sign “Went”, it is similar sign for “go” which is two “One” handshapes or only extend index fingers moving forward depend on the location you mention about. Additional to this is twist your open fingers handshape which is similar to “finish” All together you can think of signing “GO FINISH”
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign perfectly illustrates ASL grammar for completed actions. The first part, 'GO', is highly iconic, using the index fingers to visually represent a person moving from one place to another. The second part, 'FINISH', uses an outward-turning motion of the hands to visually indicate that an action is done or over.
Signing Tips
ASL often handles past tense by establishing the time first or by adding the 'FINISH' sign after the verb. When combining 'GO' and 'FINISH' to mean 'went', keep the transition smooth. Make sure your 'GO' sign is directional—move your index fingers toward the actual or established location of the place before twisting your hands for 'FINISH'.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake is trying to invent an English-style past tense ending for the word 'go'. Beginners often forget that ASL uses 'FINISH' to indicate a completed action. Another common error is making the 'GO' sign rigid instead of moving your fingers toward your intended destination.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Went" in a Sentence
1

I went to the store.

Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'GO' by moving your index fingers forward toward the imaginary store. Follow up immediately with the 'FINISH' sign by twisting your open hands to show the action is completed.

2

She went home.

Point to the person for 'she', sign 'GO' by moving your index fingers toward the established location of 'home', and then twist your open hands outward for 'FINISH' to indicate she has already left.

3

We went to the park yesterday.

Sign 'YESTERDAY' and 'WE', then use your index fingers to sign 'GO' forward. End with the 'FINISH' hand twist to emphasize that the trip to the park is a completed past action.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always have to sign 'FINISH' to mean 'went'?

Not always! In ASL, if you already establish that the event happened in the past by signing a time word like 'YESTERDAY' at the beginning of your sentence, you can often just sign 'GO'. The 'FINISH' sign simply emphasizes that the action is completely done.

Where should I point my index fingers when signing 'GO'?

'Go' is a directional sign. You should move your index fingers toward the location you are talking about. If you are going to a place on your right, move your fingers to the right. If the location isn't specific, moving them straight forward is perfectly fine.

How do I position my hands for the 'FINISH' part of the sign?

Start with your hands open, palms facing toward you or slightly upward, and then quickly twist your wrists so your palms face outward and away from you. It looks like you are pushing something away to say 'I am done.'

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