How to Sign "Your Welcome"
Take your dominant hand in closed 5 handshape with your thumb out with your palm facing you in front of your chest, you will then scoop your hand down and touch it to your ribs.
Examples Using "Your Welcome" in a Sentence
1
Thank you for the gift! — You're welcome.
After the person signs 'thank you,' respond by taking your dominant hand with the palm facing you, scooping it down from your chest to your ribs.
2
You're welcome to join us for dinner.
Use this sign to make someone feel invited. Start with your hand in front of your chest and scoop it down to your ribs while smiling warmly.
3
Thanks for helping me study. — You're welcome, anytime!
Acknowledge their gratitude by smoothly scooping your dominant hand down to your ribs, keeping your fingers together and your thumb extended.
How to Sign "Your Welcome"
Take your dominant hand in closed 5 handshape with your thumb out with your palm facing you in front of your chest, you will then scoop your hand down and touch it to your ribs.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual motivation behind this sign is deeply rooted in the concept of hospitality and invitation. By starting in front of the chest and scooping inward to touch the body, the gesture physically mimics the act of gathering someone in or warmly drawing them into your personal space. It visually communicates 'I receive your thanks' or 'you are invited in.'
Signing Tips
To make this sign look natural, focus on a smooth, fluid scooping motion rather than a rigid drop. Keep your fingers neatly together in the closed 5 handshape, allowing your thumb to extend outward comfortably. Ensure your palm remains facing your own body throughout the entire movement. Since 'you're welcome' is a polite and friendly phrase, always pair this sign with a warm smile and pleasant facial expression to convey your genuine hospitality.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often make the mistake of facing their palm outward toward the other person, which breaks the natural flow of the sign. Another frequent error is stopping the hand in mid-air; remember that the motion should complete by gently touching your ribs. Finally, avoid making the scooping motion too fast or aggressive. It should be a gentle, welcoming sweep that matches the polite nature of the phrase.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Your Welcome" in a Sentence
1Thank you for the gift! — You're welcome.
After the person signs 'thank you,' respond by taking your dominant hand with the palm facing you, scooping it down from your chest to your ribs.
2You're welcome to join us for dinner.
Use this sign to make someone feel invited. Start with your hand in front of your chest and scoop it down to your ribs while smiling warmly.
3Thanks for helping me study. — You're welcome, anytime!
Acknowledge their gratitude by smoothly scooping your dominant hand down to your ribs, keeping your fingers together and your thumb extended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just sign 'thank you' back to mean 'you're welcome'?
While some signers nod or sign 'thank you' back in casual settings, using this specific 'welcome' sign (scooping your hand down to your ribs) is the clearest and most polite way to say 'you're welcome' in ASL.
Is this the same sign used for welcoming someone to my house?
Yes! This sign is used both to reply to 'thank you' and to welcome someone into a physical space. The scooping motion toward your body visually invites them in.
Does it matter which hand I use?
You should always use your dominant hand for this sign. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to scoop down to your ribs. Keep your non-dominant hand relaxed at your side.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!