𝢜𝪜

American Sign Language

American Sign Language phrasebook

This entry is part of the phrasebook project, which presents criteria for inclusion based on utility, simplicity and commonness.

Alternative forms

• (with the hand in various locations and rotations to indicate the subject and object) ILY@Left1-PalmLeft1, ILY@Center-PalmForward, ILY@Right2-PalmRight2, etc.

Etymology

A blend of the ASL letters I, L, and Y, from the initials of the English phrase, “I love you.”

Production

• This one-handed ASL sign is produced with an affectionate smile:

  1. 

     Posture the dominant hand in the “I/L/Y” handshape about half an arm’s length in front of the shoulder, palm facing forward.
  2. Hold the hand briefly in this posture.
• The hand may be moved or rotated to indicate the subject and object of the affection. The back of the hand faces toward the subject. The palm faces toward the object.

GUH Hand	LUH Hand	LUH Move	GUH Move	GUH Hand	LUH Hand
GUH Palm	LUH Palm	Second	Second	GUH Palm	LUH Palm
GUH Position	LUH Separation	Third	Third
ILY
Out

Verb

(ASL gloss: I-LOVE-YOU)

1. I love you.
2. (transitive, inflecting with subject and object) to love

Usage notes

• (I love you): This sign usually indicates a platonic love and is used to express affection toward a large group of mere acquaintences.

Synonyms

• (to love): S@BackWrist-PalmBack-S@Chest-PalmBack