How to say “Sorry” in ASL
SORRYOne signA handshapeS handshape
- SORRY: Make a fist with the thumb at the side (the A handshape), palm in, and move it in a circle on the middle of your chest.
SORRY is made with the A handshape, and some signers use S. A regretful face goes with it. With a flat hand instead of a fist, the same circle means PLEASE.
A written description can't show movement and expression the way a signer can, and signs vary by region. Learn signs from Deaf teachers and signers; this site checks fingerspelling, the handshapes of the alphabet.
The handshapes in it
Now sign it yourself
Make the A handshape that SORRY is signed with, and hold it. Turn on your camera and it checks your handshape as you go. The video stays on your device.
Remember it, don't just copy it
Fingerspelling is how ASL handles names and words without their own sign. ASL a Day brings it back tomorrow to sign from memory, then again just before you'd forget. Five minutes a day.
Practice Letters A–F daily