Video From ASL LOVE
🤟 How to sign
To sign "Friend" in American Sign Language (ASL), extend your index fingers slightly bent, with one pointing up. Hook the other index finger around it. Switch hand positions and repeat the motion.
📖 Word definition
A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, typically exclusive of sexual or family relations.
🎯 Detailed Hand Movement Guide
- Hand Shape: Form both hands with index fingers extended and slightly curved, other fingers closed into fists.
- Starting Position: Raise your dominant hand with index finger pointing up at chest level.
- First Hook: Use your non-dominant hand's index finger to hook around your dominant hand's index finger from below.
- Switch Positions: Switch hand positions - now the non-dominant hand points up.
- Second Hook: Hook your dominant hand's index finger around the non-dominant hand's finger.
- Facial Expression: Maintain a friendly, warm expression throughout the sign.
⚠️ Common Mistakes & What to Avoid
❌ Using straight fingers: The index fingers should be slightly curved, not completely straight.
❌ Forgetting to switch positions: You must hook both ways to complete the sign properly.
❌ Hooking too loosely: Make sure the fingers actually hook around each other, not just touch.
❌ Wrong hand position: Keep hands at chest level, not too high or too low.
💬 Common Sentence Examples
"You are my best friend."
How to sign: Point to the person with your index finger → sign "friend" (hook fingers as shown in video) → point to yourself → sign "best" (make an "A" handshape and move it upward) → sign "friend" again.
"I want to make new friends."
How to sign: Point to yourself → sign "want" (both hands reaching forward, palms up) → sign "make" (one fist on top of another, twist) → sign "new" (back of hand brushing across palm) → sign "friend" (hook fingers as learned).
"My friend is coming tomorrow."
How to sign: Point to yourself for "my" → sign "friend" (hook fingers) → sign "come" (both index fingers pointing toward you, moving closer) → sign "tomorrow" (thumb of "A" handshape touching chin, then moving forward).