Noun-Verb Pairs

Noun-Verb Pairs

Just like beginners learning Spanish or German, many ASL students confuse nouns and verbs, not forming the right sign correctly. Fortunately, the manner in which ASL forms a verb is simpler than most spoken languages; nevertheless, it is governed by a strict series of rules covering not only formation but modulation as well. Review the following list of noun-verb pairs. Each is based on the same sign, but its execution differs noticeably.

Nouns Verbs

1. AIRPLANE FROM-FLY-TO

2. AIR PUMP PUMP AIR

3. BABY ROCK-baby-IN-ARMS

4. BACKPACK PUT-ON-BACKPACK

5. BATH BATHING

6. BED GO-TO-BED

7. BICYCLE RIDE-bicycle

8. BOAT GO-BY-BOAT

9. BOOK OPEN BOOK

10. CAMERA TAKE-PICTURE

11. CAR DRIVE-car

12. CHAIR SIT

13. CIGARETTE SMOKE

14. COAT PUT-COAT-ON

15. COMB COMB-HAIR

16. DOOR OPEN/CLOSE-DOOR

17. FOOD EAT