Another in Sign Language: How to Sign It in ASL

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), 'another' is usually signed with the same sign as 'other'. Make a thumbs-up with your dominant hand, then twist your wrist so the thumb points out to your dominant side. ASL dictionaries often gloss this sign as OTHER or ANOTHER. They describe the handshape as an 'A' or '10' handshape, which is a closed fist with the thumb extended.

Step by step

• 1. Use your dominant hand: your right hand if you are right-handed, your left if you are left-handed.
• 2. Close your fingers into a fist and extend your thumb upward, like a thumbs-up.
• 3. Hold the hand in front of your chest, slightly to your dominant side, with the thumb pointing up.
• 4. Rotate your wrist outward in one smooth motion so the thumb ends up pointing sideways, away from your body's center.
• 5. Make the movement once, without repeating it or shaking it.

Ambiguities that change the sign

The English word 'another' has more than one meaning, and ASL does not always map to it word for word. Check which meaning you intend:

• 'A different one' or 'some other': the OTHER/ANOTHER sign above is the usual choice.
• 'One more' or 'an additional one': the same sign is commonly used, but fluent signers may phrase the idea differently depending on the sentence. If precision matters, confirm with a fluent signer.
• 'One another' or 'each other': this is a different sign, not OTHER. Both hands take the thumbs-up handshape, one thumb points up and the other points down, and the hands circle around each other.
• Other sign languages: this guide covers ASL only. British Sign Language and other national sign languages use different signs.

Checking your sign on camera

If you plan to use the sign on a video call, record a short clip or watch your camera preview. Many self-view previews are mirrored, so in your own preview the twist can look like it goes the wrong way. Other participants see the unmirrored image. Check the direction with a recording or a mirror-off setting rather than relying on the preview alone.

• Framing: keep your hand, chest and face in view so the starting and ending positions are visible.
• Background: a plain physical background that contrasts with your skin tone usually makes handshapes easier to read.
• Virtual effects: background blur or replacement can sometimes cut off or smear moving hands. If your hand edges look unstable, turn the effect off for signing.
• Camera access versus clear video: a camera can be detected and working while motion still looks blurred or choppy. Clear video is what matters for readable signs.

Limitations of this guide

This guide was written without source material such as dictionary entries or video references. The description reflects widely taught ASL usage, but written instructions cannot capture every detail of movement, and regional or personal variation exists. To confirm your sign, compare it with a reputable ASL video dictionary or ask a Deaf signer or qualified ASL instructor.