Sensitive in Sign Language (ASL)

ASL Dictionary 3 min read

How to sign Sensitive in ASL
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The sign for “sensitive” in ASL conveys a sense of emotional or physical responsiveness. It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing feelings, reactions to situations, or physical sensitivity. This sign is commonly used in everyday conversations to express empathy or to describe someone who is easily affected by external stimuli.

Last reviewed: March 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the sign for ‘sensitive’ in a sentence?

You can incorporate the sign for ‘sensitive’ in sentences like ‘She is sensitive to criticism’ by signing ‘SENSITIVE’ followed by the sign for ‘CRITICISM’. This helps convey the context in which the sensitivity is being expressed.

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

Yes, regional variations do exist in ASL. While the standard sign involves moving an open ‘8’ handshape back and forth, in some regions, you might find slight differences in the movement or handshape used, reflecting local dialects and preferences.

Is the sign for ‘sensitive’ used differently in formal and informal contexts?

The sign itself remains the same in both formal and informal contexts; however, the surrounding conversation may differ. In formal settings, you might provide more context, while in casual conversations, you can use it more freely to express emotions or characteristics.

What signs are similar or easily confused with ‘sensitive’?

The sign for ‘sensitive’ can be easily confused with signs for ’emotional’ or ‘touchy’. Pay attention to the handshape and movement to distinguish between them, as ‘sensitive’ uses an open ‘8’ and has a specific back-and-forth motion.

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

In BSL, the sign for ‘sensitive’ is different and may involve distinct handshapes and movements. While ASL and BSL share some similarities due to common roots, it’s essential to learn each system’s signs separately, as they can vary significantly.

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

When teaching the sign ‘sensitive’, demonstrate it in various contexts to help learners understand its usage. Encourage students to practice by role-playing scenarios where sensitivity is relevant, and provide visual feedback to refine their signing technique.

Table of Contents

Sign at a Glance

Type Adjective
Sign Type One-Handed
Location Body
Handshape open_8
Movement Back and Forth
Iconicity Arbitrary (1.8/7) — Arbitrary
Frequency Common (5.0/7)
Semantic Category Attribute
ASL Signbank View sign video →

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

How to Sign “Sensitive”

  1. Start with your dominant hand in an open “8” handshape. This means your fingers are extended and slightly spread apart, resembling an open palm.
  2. Position your hand near your chest, around the area of your heart, to emphasize the emotional aspect of sensitivity.
  3. Move your hand back and forth gently a few times, maintaining the open “8” handshape. The movement should be subtle and fluid, reflecting the idea of sensitivity.
  4. Throughout the sign, maintain an empathetic facial expression, as this adds to the meaning of sensitivity. Frowning slightly or raising your eyebrows can enhance the emotional tone.

Common Mistakes

  • Some learners may use a flat handshape instead of the open “8” handshape. Make sure to keep your fingers extended and slightly spread to accurately represent the sign.
  • Exaggerating the movement can make the sign appear too aggressive. Aim for a gentle, smooth motion to better convey the concept of sensitivity.
  • Neglecting facial expressions can lead to a lack of emotional context in the sign. Remember to incorporate appropriate expressions to enhance understanding.
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  • A – Represents the letter “A” in the ASL alphabet.
  • A Little Bit – Used to describe a small amount or degree.
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  • Abbreviate – Means to shorten or cut down a word or phrase.

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