Borrowing in American Sign Language opens new possibilities for clear communication when you need to reference loans, debt, or lending concepts. This guide explains how to sign borrow, show related actions, and understand cultural considerations so your message is accurate and respectful.
Use this structured overview to quickly recognize key signs, variations, and context for borrow in ASL across everyday, educational, and professional settings.
| English Phrase | ASL Gloss | Handshape | Movement | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| borrow | BOR-row | B handshape | Two short arcs toward the signer | Near dominant hand, non-dominant flat palm |
| lend | LEND | 5 handshape | Arc moving outward | From signer toward recipient space |
| loan | LOAN | L handshape | Static hold, slight tilt | Chest area |
| interest | IN-trest | I handshape to modified O handshape | Small rotation near chest | Center chest |
| pay back | PAY BACK | P handshape alternating with B handshape | Forward motion in two beats | Chest to outward path |
How to Sign Borrow Clearly
Primary Movement and Handshape
Form a B handshape for borrow and move it gently in two small arcs toward your non-dominant hand, which lies flat palm up. Keep the motion smooth to show the idea of receiving something temporarily rather than a sharp gesture.
Contextual Adjustments
In financial discussions, add a slight tilt of the head and a clear facial expression to signal that the action involves trust and agreed terms. For informal settings, reduced movement can still convey borrow, but clarity should remain the priority.
Lend Versus Borrow Directional Cues
Directional Differences
When you sign lend, use an open 5 handshape and move the arc away from your body toward the intended recipient. Borrow reverses that direction, moving the B handshape toward you, visually representing receiving something with the intention of returning it.
Borrow in Financial and Educational Settings
Professional Contexts
In workplace or academic conversations about budgets and equipment, sign borrow with measured pacing and consistent placement to emphasize responsibility. Pair the sign with clear questions about terms to avoid misunderstanding.
Everyday Usage
For casual interactions, such as borrowing a pen or a book, the basic B-handshape arc remains effective. Maintain eye contact and a cooperative facial expression to align the gesture with polite social norms.
Key Takeaways for Using Borrow in ASL
- Use a B handshape with a smooth, two-arc motion toward your non-dominant hand.
- Direct the movement toward you for borrow and away from you for lend.
- Maintain clear facial expression and head tilt to signal trust and temporary use.
- In financial contexts, pair the sign with explicit questions about repayment terms.
FAQ
Reader questions
Does the sign for borrow change when talking about money loans
The core B-handshape arc toward the signer stays the same, but you can add a subtle forward lean and a neutral facial expression to keep the financial context clear without altering the essential sign.
How do I clarify that I mean borrow an item, not buy it
Use a questioning eyebrow raise and a brief pause before or after the sign, then follow with a related sign like USE or RETURN to signal temporary possession rather than purchase.
Can I use the same gesture for borrow and debt
No, debt is best expressed with a distinct sign such as OWED or by fingerspelling, because it refers to an obligation rather than the temporary transfer implied by borrow.
Are there regional differences in how borrow is signed
Some communities may use a slightly shortened arc or alternate handshapes, but the B-handshape approach is widely understood; adapt gently to local signing partners while keeping movement clear and respectful.