How to Sign "Awkward" in ASL

The short answer

The sign most often taught for "awkward" in American Sign Language uses both hands in a "3" handshape: thumb, index and middle finger extended. The palms face down and the fingers point forward. The hands move forward one after the other in small up-and-down arcs, like clumsy, stumbling steps. This form is closely tied to the idea of being clumsy or ungainly.

No source material was supplied for this article, so this description reflects the commonly taught form rather than a verified reference. ASL has regional and personal variation. Before relying on the sign, compare it with a reputable ASL video dictionary or ask a fluent Deaf signer.

Which meaning of "awkward" do you need?

English uses "awkward" for two different ideas, and the choice changes what you should sign:

• Clumsy or ungainly (awkward movement, an awkward teenager): the alternating "3" handshape sign described above fits this meaning best.
• Socially uncomfortable (an awkward silence, an awkward moment): signers often express this through context, facial expression or a sign meaning "uncomfortable" rather than the clumsy sign. The supplied material does not confirm one standard sign for this meaning. Check with a fluent signer for the phrasing that fits your situation.

In both cases, facial expression is part of the meaning in ASL, not decoration. A grimace or tense expression helps convey that something feels awkward.

Step by step

• Form a "3" handshape on both hands: thumb, index and middle finger extended, ring and little fingers folded down.
• Turn both palms down, with the extended fingers pointing forward, away from your body.
• Hold your hands roughly in front of your chest.
• Move the hands forward alternately in small up-and-down arcs, one hand lifting as the other lowers.
• Add a facial expression that matches the feeling you mean.

Checking your sign on camera

A webcam recording is a simple way to compare your sign with a dictionary video. It is also useful practice if you will sign during video calls.

• Make sure the camera actually records video, not just that the browser or system has granted camera access. Do a short test recording and play it back.
• Frame yourself from roughly the waist up so both hands and your face stay in view throughout the movement.
• Use even light in front of you rather than behind you, so your handshape and expression are not lost in shadow.
• A plain physical background usually makes hands easier to see than a busy one. Virtual background or blur effects can distort or cut off moving hands, so test with them turned off.
• Watch the playback side by side with a reference video, checking the handshape, palm direction and alternating rhythm.

A clear recording only shows that the sign was captured well. It does not confirm that the sign is correct or natural. For that, feedback from a fluent signer remains the most reliable check.