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How To Sign RESPECT
in American Sign Language.
ASL LOVE
🤟 How to sign
To sign "RESPECT" in American Sign Language (ASL), use your dominant hand in an "R" handshape, starting at your forehead and moving down to touch your non-dominant hand's palm, representing giving honor and recognition to someone.
📖 Word definition
A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements; due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others.
🎯 Detailed Hand Movement Guide

  1. Hand Shape: Dominant hand in "R" handshape (index and middle fingers crossed), non-dominant hand flat.
  2. Starting Position: "R" hand at forehead level, non-dominant hand extended palm up at chest level.
  3. Movement: Move "R" hand down from forehead to touch the palm of non-dominant hand.
  4. Path: Straight downward motion from head to hand, showing honor being given.
  5. Hand Orientation: "R" hand palm facing down, non-dominant palm facing up throughout.
  6. Facial Expression: Serious, sincere expression showing genuine admiration and honor.

⚠️ Common Mistakes & What to Avoid

❌ Wrong handshape: Use proper "R" handshape, not pointing finger or flat hand.

❌ Starting too low: Begin at forehead level, not at eye or nose level.

❌ Missing the touch: Must make contact with non-dominant palm to complete the sign.

❌ Casual expression: Show sincerity in facial expression, not casual or dismissive look.

💬 Common Sentence Examples

"I respect my teacher."
How to sign: Point to yourself ("I") → sign "respect" (R hand from forehead to palm) → sign "my" (flat hand on chest) → sign "teacher" (fingerspell T-E-A-C-H-E-R or use teacher sign).
"Show respect to elders."
How to sign: Sign "show" (index finger moves forward from palm) → sign "respect" → sign "to" (index fingers touch) → sign "elders" (C hand at chin moves down showing beard).
"Respect is important."
How to sign: Sign "respect" (R hand from forehead to palm) → sign "important" (F hands twist up emphasizing significance) → nod for emphasis.