ASL LOVE
🤟 How to sign
To sign "BORROW" in American Sign Language (ASL), use both hands with the dominant hand in a "V" handshape moving toward your body while the non-dominant hand remains flat, representing taking something temporarily from someone else.
📖 Word definition
To take and use something that belongs to someone else with the intention of returning it.
🎯 Detailed Hand Movement Guide
- Hand Shape: Dominant hand in "V" handshape (index and middle fingers extended), non-dominant hand flat and open.
- Starting Position: Non-dominant hand flat, palm up, in front of body; dominant hand "V" shape positioned above it.
- Movement: Dominant hand moves in a scooping motion toward your body.
- Path: Create a pulling/scooping motion from the flat hand toward yourself.
- Hand Orientation: "V" fingers point down initially, then curve toward body during movement.
- Facial Expression: Neutral to slightly questioning, showing the temporary nature of taking.
⚠️ Common Mistakes & What to Avoid
❌ Wrong handshape: Use "V" shape, not pointing finger or full hand.
❌ Moving away from body: Movement should come toward you, not away.
❌ Missing base hand: Non-dominant flat hand is essential to show taking from someone.
❌ Too aggressive motion: Gentle scooping motion, not grabbing or snatching.
💬 Common Sentence Examples
"Can I borrow your book?"
How to sign: Sign "can" (fists move down) → sign "I" (point to self) → sign "borrow" (V hand scoops from flat hand) → sign "your" (point forward) → sign "book" (palms open and close like book).
"I need to borrow money."
How to sign: Sign "I" (point to self) → sign "need" (bent finger moves down) → sign "borrow" → sign "money" (flat hand taps palm repeatedly).
"She borrowed my car yesterday."
How to sign: Sign "she" (point to side) → sign "borrow" → sign "my" (flat hand on chest) → sign "car" (hands grip steering wheel) → sign "yesterday" (Y hand moves back over shoulder).