near in asl

near

This sign uses "bent" hands. Hold the right hand either behind or in front of the left hand and then move the right hand "near" the left hand.
Another variation is to move the right hand relatively quickly to and make contact with the left hand.  If whatever you are talking about is "really close or nearby" then roll your shoulders forward and hunch down a bit.  Start the sign with the hands a bit closer together and use more facial expression, (a whistling expression on the lips, eyes squinted a bit).

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near:

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This version pats the left hand twice:
 

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Near by my side:

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American Sign Language University ™ ASL resources by Lifeprint.com © Dr. William Vicars


OPTIONAL READING:

In a message dated 8/22/2006 9:27:18 A.M. Pacific Daylight Time, Shirleen.Jones@ writes:

Hi Dr. Bill - Quick question - Re: the sign "near" using bent hand shapes and "near/ not far" using handshape F touching bridge of nose moving downward - In which situations do you use these signs?  What is the difference?  Thanks!!! 
-Shirleen

Shirleen,
The "not far" sign using the "F" handshape is specifically used for distance.
The "near" sign using the bent hand  has a broader range of meanings.  It can mean distance but it also is used for duration as in "getting close to the end of a project."  That version moves the dominant hand toward the base hand.  I have also seen the "near" sign used to indicate emotional closeness.  While some "experts" would debate the appropriateness of that usage, it is not my goal to prescribe usage but simply document and discuss what is indeed being used.
Cordially,
Bill
(Dr. Bill Vicars of Lifeprint.com ASLU)