How to sign don't in American Sign Language

Sign #1 (1 of 2)

Sign Instructions:

Begin with both hands in front of you pointing inward and your palms oriented down. Then, rotate your hands until they are pointing away from each other.

Videos

Example Video

Tutorial Video

Sequential Image Breakdown

Sequential Breakdown of don't

Beginning and End Frames

Beginning of Sign

First Frame of don't

End of Sign

Final Frame of don't

Dominant Handshapes for this sign

Dominant Handshape for don't
Extend your fingers and press them together, with your thumb sticking out to the side.

Non-Dominant Handshapes for this sign

Non-Dominant Handshape for don't
Extend your fingers and press them together, with your thumb sticking out to the side.

Sign #2 (2 of 2)

Definition:

Negation or contraction

Sign Instructions:

Making an "A" handshape, beginning with your thumb touching the bottom of your chin. Move your hand forward and then down, starting with your forearm in a more vertical position and then ending in a more horizontal position.

Videos

Example Video

Tutorial Video

Sequential Image Breakdown

Sequential Breakdown of don't

Beginning and End Frames

Beginning of Sign

First Frame of don't

End of Sign

Final Frame of don't

Dominant Handshapes for this sign

Dominant Handshape for don't
Make a fist with all fingers curled in and the thumb pressed against the index finger.

About the Creator

Paul Kelly, a nationally certified sign language interpreter and the founder of strongasl.com, has dedicated his career to bridging communication gaps through sign language. As a CODA (child of deaf adult), with deep personal and professional roots in the deaf community, Paul brings a unique blend of personal insight and professional expertise to his work.

His experiences range from legal to entertainment interpreting, including teaching sign language to celebrities like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. His passion for innovation is evident in the AI-driven features of this dictionary, aiming to make sign language more accessible for all.

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