The phrase “I love you” may be one of the most romantic words that you can say to your loved one. While there are many different languages around the world, the meaning of these three words is able to transcend any language barriers. Some people like to be original and look for ways to convey their deep love in truly special ways. A romantic gesture, such as saying “I love you” in sign language, is definitely a different and charming way to surprise a loved one.
In this OneHowTo article we explain step-by-step how to say “I love you” in sign language.
There are different forms of sign language used by the deaf community and by hard hearing people; as well as, by people that communicate with this community. In the English language the most common form is American Sign Language (ASL).
- To say “I”, you have to point your middle finger towards your chest.
- To say “love”, cross your arms in the form of an “X” in front of your chest.
- To say “you”, point your middle finger to the person you intend to say “I love you”.
In ASL there is also a shorthand method that combines the three letters I-L-Y in just one gesture. For this you will have to extend your pinky finger, your middle finger and your thumb. Then slowly shake your hand.
If you want to say “I love you” in French sign language it is actually much easier. Across different countries sign language rules may vary, so in order to say “je t’aime” there is a different rule that follows.
You have to raise your right hand in an upward movement and then extend it forward with your palm facing upward.
To say “ich liebe dich”, which means “I love you” in German, first raise your hands up to your chest level with your palms facing inward. Then place your right hand on top of your left hand so that each palm is on top of each other but your fingers are on a diagonal angle to each side.
Then start moving your hands towards the person in front of you while slightly shaking your fingers. You are mimicking a flying butterfly.
In Italian you say “I love you” by saying “ti amo”.
To be able to say it in sign language, first pinch your right hand middle finger and your thumb. Then point it towards your chest. Finally extend this gesture towards your loved one.
If you want to say “te quiero” or “I love you” in Spanish and you already know the ASL form, then you may notice that both forms are very similar.
As opposed to “I love you” in ASL, to say these words in Spanish you have to point your middle finger towards your chest and then to the person in front of you before you cross your arms in front of your chest.
Let us know which form you like best to say “ I love you” in sign language.
If you want to read similar articles to How to Say “I Love You” in Sign Language, we recommend you visit our Sentimental relationships category.