Mistakes in Fingerspelling?

Question

When you're fingerspelling and you accidentally misspell a word (it happens to the best of us) what do you do to illustrate that you messed up and are going to spell the word over? (Other than just signing "I messed up and I'm going to spell the word again") Is this even a thing? Or am I overthinking it?

Answer 1

I agree with the previous comment. I would add that it is a native skill to show you made a mistake without clarifying "I made a mistake and need to start over."

Be subtle with the closing of eyes and waving you hand. Real subtle and quick, then try again. You'll look more like a native signer that way.

Answer 2

Sign language is much more than what goes on with your hands. Deaf persons (and "native" signers like myself) also take into account your facial expressions and body language. Much of ASL is also dependent on context and mutual understanding with the person you're talking to. Personally, when I make a mistake, I usually shake my head, close my eyes, and either wiggle my fingers or sign "no," conveying to the other person that I made a mistake.