Start ASL Dictionary (Legacy)

This phrase is signed as: "PLEASE SLOW".

This phrase is signed as: "PLEASE SIGN AGAIN".

This phrase is signed as: "FINGERSPELL AGAIN?" with the yes/no question facial expression (eyebrows up). You can also add PLEASE to this phrase if you want.

This phrase is signed "YOU READ-LIPS YOU?" with the yes/no question facial expression (eyebrows up).

An example of the sign CAN'T can be seen in the video above. He signs, "I can't sleep - I've been tossing and turning all night," and signs, "(SLEEP ME CAN'T)neg TOSS-TURN ALL-NIGHT."

CHANGE (2)

This sign means CHANGE as in "coins."

You learn about Classifiers in ASL 2 - Unit 5

Spoken languages like English are linear--they are expressed one word after the other. ASL, however, is a spatial language and is expressed in the space around you. Classifiers create depth as well as add clarity, movement, and details to conversations and explanations.

Classifiers are written like this: CL:1 (person) "walking slow". The CL indicates that a classifier is being used, the 1 indicates the handshape, the parenthesis indicate what the classifier is representing, and the quotes indicate the inflection being used.

Here are some examples of handshapes and how they can be used for different types of classifiers:

Classifiers are a very important part of ASL. There isn't a sign for every English word and classifiers are able to fill those gaps and create more visual clarity.

COLOR (2)

This is a different signer signing COLOR.

COMPUTER (2)

MIND-YOU GO-TO STORE BUY VOLLEYBALL PINK?