Throw in Sign Language: How to Sign It in ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign most often taught for throw imitates an overhand toss. A closed hand near the shoulder moves forward and opens, as if releasing a ball. ASL is the sign language used by most Deaf communities in the US. Other sign languages, such as British Sign Language, have their own signs, so this guide covers ASL only.

The short answer

Hold your dominant hand in a loose fist near your shoulder, as if gripping a small ball. Move it forward in a throwing motion and open your fingers as the hand moves, as if letting the ball go. Your dominant hand is the one you write with.

Which meaning of throw do you mean?

ASL signs a concept, not an English word, so the sign depends on what you mean.

• Throwing an object, such as a ball or a stone: the overhand release described above is the usual starting point. Signers often adjust the movement to match the object and the direction it travels.
• Throwing something away, meaning discarding it: this is commonly signed differently. The hand flicks open in a downward or sideways tossing motion that suggests getting rid of something. Treat it as a separate sign.
• Idioms such as throw a party or throw a fit: these do not translate word for word. They are expressed with signs for the actual idea, such as party or tantrum, not with the sign for throw.

Step by step

• 1. Make a loose fist with your dominant hand, with the thumb resting along the fingers. This is the ASL "S" handshape.
• 2. Raise the hand to about shoulder height, slightly to the side, palm facing roughly forward.
• 3. Move the hand forward and slightly down, as in a natural overhand throw.
• 4. Open your fingers during the movement so the hand ends spread open. This is the ASL "5" handshape.
• 5. Let your face and body match the action. A soft toss and a hard throw can look different, and that difference carries meaning in ASL.

Checking your sign on camera

If you are practicing in front of a webcam or signing on a video call, keep these points in mind.

• Framing: keep your hands, face and upper body in view, from just above your head to around your waist. A throwing motion that starts at the shoulder can leave the frame if the camera is too close.
• Mirrored preview: many call apps and camera apps show your self-view mirrored, like a mirror. Other people usually see the unmirrored image. Your right hand can look like a left hand in the preview, but viewers still see your movement correctly.
• Motion blur: fast movements can blur on a low frame rate or in dim light. If the release looks smeared in a recording, add more light in front of you or slow the movement slightly while practicing.
• Background: a plain, uncluttered wall behind you makes hand shapes easier to read. Virtual or blurred backgrounds can sometimes clip or smear moving hands, so test the effect before relying on it.
• Record and compare: make a short recording, then compare it with a video demonstration of the sign. Seeing the movement from the outside is the most reliable way to check it.

Limitations of this guide

No specific source evidence was supplied for this article. The description above reflects the commonly taught form of the sign, not a verified dictionary entry. ASL also varies by region, community and context. Before using the sign in an important conversation, check it against a reputable ASL video dictionary or ask a Deaf signer or a qualified ASL instructor. A written description cannot fully show the timing, handshape changes and facial expression that a video or a fluent signer can.