How to Sign “Able” and “Can” in ASL

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), “can” and “able” are usually shown with the same sign when they mean ability or possibility, as in “I can drive” or “She is able to come.” Make two fists in front of your body with your palms facing down. Then move both fists down together in a short, firm motion. Context tells the viewer whether you mean “can” or “able.”

One distinction changes the meaning. This sign covers “can” as a verb only. A can as a container, such as a can of soda, uses a different sign. If you mean the object, don't use the ability sign.

Step by step

• 1. Hold both hands in front of your chest or upper stomach, about shoulder-width apart.
• 2. Form each hand into an S handshape: a closed fist with the thumb wrapped across the front of the fingers.
• 3. Turn both palms to face down toward the floor.
• 4. Move both fists down together a few inches, in a firm movement from the elbows and wrists.
• 5. Stop the movement crisply rather than letting your hands drift.

Signers vary slightly. Some use one decisive downward movement and others a small double movement, and the size of the motion can change with emphasis. This guide is based on general descriptions of the sign, not on a specific dictionary or regional source. To confirm the version used in your area, check with a Deaf signer, an ASL instructor, or a reputable video dictionary of ASL.

Related sign: “can't” or “cannot”

The negative is a separate sign, not the “can” sign with a head shake added. Hold both index fingers out, pointing forward, with the non-dominant hand slightly lower. Move the dominant index finger downward so it brushes past the tip of the non-dominant index finger. A head shake often goes with it, but the hand movement carries the meaning.

Checking your sign on camera

If you're practicing for a video call or recording yourself, make sure the camera actually shows the sign clearly. The camera being on is not enough.

• Frame yourself from about the top of your head to your waist, so both fists stay in view through the whole downward movement.
• Use even light from the front, so your hands don't turn into silhouettes against a bright window.
• A plain physical background that contrasts with your skin tone and clothing makes the handshape easier to read.
• Virtual backgrounds and background blur can smear or cut off fast hand movements, so test with these effects turned off.
• Record a short clip and play it back. Check that the fists, the palms-down orientation and the stopping point all show up.

A clean recording only shows that the camera captured the sign. Whether the sign looks natural and correct is best confirmed by a fluent signer.