ASL LOVE
🤟 How to sign
To sign "DON'T" in American Sign Language (ASL), place your dominant hand in an "A" handshape under your chin, then quickly move it forward and down while opening to a "5" handshape, representing rejection or negation.
📖 Word definition
Used to express prohibition, refusal, or negation; contraction of "do not."
🎯 Detailed Hand Movement Guide
- Hand Shape: Start with "A" handshape (closed fist with thumb on side), end with "5" handshape (open hand).
- Starting Position: Dominant hand in "A" shape positioned under your chin.
- Movement: Quick, sharp movement forward and slightly downward.
- Path: Straight line from under chin outward, about 6-8 inches.
- Hand Orientation: Palm faces down throughout the movement.
- Facial Expression: Firm, serious expression showing determination or prohibition.
⚠️ Common Mistakes & What to Avoid
❌ Too slow: Movement should be quick and decisive, not gradual.
❌ Wrong starting position: Must start under chin, not at chest or side.
❌ Weak handshape change: Clear transition from "A" to "5" handshape is essential.
❌ Upward movement: Move forward and down, not up or sideways.
💬 Common Sentence Examples
"Don't touch that."
How to sign: Sign "DON'T" (A to 5 hand from chin) → sign "touch" (middle finger of one hand touches back of other hand) → sign "that" (point with index finger).
"I don't understand."
How to sign: Sign "I" (point to self) → sign "DON'T" → sign "understand" (index finger flicks up from forehead).
"Don't forget your homework."
How to sign: Sign "DON'T" → sign "forget" (fingers sweep across forehead) → sign "your" (point forward) → sign "homework" (H hand taps on opposite palm twice).