Concerned in Sign Language (ASL)

ASL Dictionary 3 min read

How to sign Concerned in ASL
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The sign for “concerned” expresses feelings of worry or unease about something. It’s commonly used in conversations when discussing issues that are troubling or when expressing empathy towards someone’s situation. This sign helps convey emotional depth and connection in a conversation.

Last reviewed: March 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the sign ‘concerned’ in sentences?

You can use the sign ‘concerned’ in sentences by incorporating it into phrases like ‘I am concerned about my friend’ or ‘She seems concerned about the exam.’ This helps communicate your feelings effectively in context.

Are there regional variations of the sign for ‘concerned’?

Yes, regional variations do exist. Some areas may have slight differences in handshape or movement. It’s beneficial to watch native signers from different regions to see how they express the same sign.

Is the sign ‘concerned’ used differently in formal versus informal settings?

Generally, the sign for ‘concerned’ is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. However, in formal settings, ensure that your body language and facial expressions align with the seriousness of the discussion to convey the appropriate level of concern.

What are some similar or easily confused signs with ‘concerned’?

The signs for ‘worried’ and ‘anxious’ can be similar to ‘concerned,’ but they often involve different movements or facial expressions. Practicing these variations can help distinguish them in conversation.

How does the sign for ‘concerned’ compare to British Sign Language (BSL)?

In BSL, the sign for ‘concerned’ is different from ASL. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with BSL signs if you’re interacting with the Deaf community in the UK, as each sign language has its own unique vocabulary and grammar.

What are some effective teaching tips for the sign ‘concerned’?

To teach the sign ‘concerned,’ demonstrate the sign while emphasizing the importance of facial expressions. Use role-playing scenarios to help students practice using the sign in context, encouraging them to express feelings authentically.

Table of Contents

Sign at a Glance

Type Verb
Sign Type Symmetricaloralternating
Location Body
Handshape open_8
Movement Straight
Iconicity Arbitrary (2.813/7) — Arbitrary
Frequency Common (5.259/7)
ASL Signbank View sign video →

Data: ASL-LEX 2.0 · ASL Signbank (Caselli et al., 2017)

How to Sign “Concerned”

  1. Start with your dominant hand in an open “8” handshape, similar to a flat “O” but with your fingers extended and slightly apart.
  2. Position your hand near your chest, with your palm facing inward towards your body.
  3. Move your hand straight out away from your chest, while keeping your fingers extended and together.
  4. As you make this movement, display a facial expression that reflects concern, such as furrowing your brow or widening your eyes slightly.

Common Mistakes

  • Some learners may forget to incorporate facial expressions, which are crucial in conveying emotions in ASL.
  • Using a closed handshape instead of the open “8” can lead to misunderstandings, as it changes the meaning of the sign.
  • Not moving the hand straight out from the body can confuse the sign, making it less clear to the viewer.
  • A – The sign for the letter “A”, often used in fingerspelling.
  • A Little Bit – A sign expressing a small amount or degree.
  • Abbreviate – To shorten a word or phrase, often used in discussions about language.
  • 5 Dollars – A sign for a specific monetary amount, useful in financial contexts.
  • 9 – The sign for the number nine, commonly used in counting or discussions involving numbers.

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