Sign Language Basics

The manual alphabet is used to fingerspell words that do not have an established ASL sign, such as proper nouns, brand names, or technical terms, by forming each letter with one hand.

The dominant hand forms the shape of the letter C, with the fingers curved together and the thumb positioned to create an open 'C' shape facing the signer.

The number 1 is represented by the index finger pointing upward with the palm facing the signer, while the other fingers and thumb are folded into the palm.

Touch the index and middle fingers of your dominant hand to the side of your forehead, then move them outward in a small salute-like motion, similar to a casual greeting wave.

Touch the fingertips of your flat dominant hand to your chin, then move the hand forward and slightly down toward the person you are thanking, with palm facing up at the end.

Place your flat dominant hand on the center of your chest and rub it in a circular motion clockwise. This sign is the same as the sign for 'sorry' but context determines the meaning.

Form a fist with your dominant hand with the thumb tucked or resting against the side, and nod the fist up and down at the wrist to mimic a head nodding 'yes'.

Bring the index and middle fingers of your dominant hand together with the thumb, then tap them against the thumb in a quick closing motion, similar to a mouth saying 'no'.

Tap the thumb of an open '5' handshape (dominant hand) on the chin with the fingers spread upward and slightly forward. The non-dominant hand remains passive.

Tap the thumb of an open '5' handshape (dominant hand) on the forehead with the fingers spread upward and slightly forward, similar to 'Mother' but on the forehead.

Form an 'L' handshape with both hands at chest level, then bring the dominant 'L' hand down to meet the non-dominant 'L' hand, interlocking the thumbs and index fingers briefly.

Form an 'L' handshape with both hands at chest level, then bring the dominant 'L' hand down to meet the non-dominant 'L' hand with the thumb extended downward, similar to 'Brother' but inverted.