How to Sign “Awesome” in ASL

The short answer

American Sign Language (ASL) does not translate English words one-for-one, so there is no single fixed sign that every signer uses for “awesome.” Signers choose a sign based on what they mean. To praise something as great, a common choice is WONDERFUL (also used for FANTASTIC). For casual approval, as in “that’s awesome,” COOL is common. For amazement, signers often use WOW or AMAZING. In all of these, your facial expression carries much of the meaning, so an enthusiastic face matters as much as your hands.

Pick the sign that matches your meaning

What you mean | Common ASL choice

Something is great or excellent | WONDERFUL / FANTASTIC

Casual approval, like “nice” or “sweet” | COOL

You are impressed or amazed | WOW or AMAZING

You need the English word itself, such as a name or quote | Fingerspell A-W-E-S-O-M-E

The meaning of “awesome” makes a difference. In everyday speech it usually means “really good,” but it can also mean “inspiring awe,” as with a landscape or a big event. Signing WONDERFUL for an awe-inspiring view can sound lighter than you intend. Signing COOL in a formal setting can sound too casual.

How to sign WONDERFUL

• Raise both open hands in front of you at about shoulder-to-head height, palms facing forward.
• Move both hands forward a short distance with small, repeated pushes.
• Keep the movement crisp and contained rather than wide.
• Show a pleased, emphatic expression, such as raised eyebrows or a smile, to signal real enthusiasm.

How to sign COOL

• Open your dominant hand with the fingers spread.
• Touch your thumb tip to the center of your chest.
• Wiggle your fingers while your thumb stays in place.
• Add a relaxed, approving expression.

Limitations to keep in mind

Signs vary by region, age group and community. Newer or slang signs for “awesome” also circulate, and this guide does not cover them. The descriptions above are general and were not checked against a cited sign dictionary for this article. WOW in particular has several forms, so learn it from a video source instead of a written description. Before you rely on any of these signs, compare your version with a reputable ASL video dictionary or ask a Deaf signer or a qualified ASL instructor.

Check your sign

• Record yourself and compare the recording with a trusted video source. Check handshape, palm direction, location and movement.
• Make sure the sign stays in the space in front of your upper body and doesn’t drift out of frame.
• Confirm that your facial expression matches the enthusiasm you intend.
• If possible, ask a fluent signer whether the sign suits the situation.

Signing clearly on a video call

If the camera allows access and shows a picture, that only means it is working. It does not tell you whether other people can read your signing. Check the preview before the call. Frame yourself from the top of your head to about your waist, and leave room on both sides so your hands stay visible. Light your face and hands from the front. A bright window behind you can turn you into a silhouette.

A plain physical background that contrasts with your skin and clothing makes handshapes easier to read. Virtual backgrounds and blur effects are different: they are added by software and can cut off or smear moving hands and fingers. Test them on camera before relying on them, or turn them off. On a weak connection, fast movements may blur, so slow down slightly and keep your signs distinct.

Many apps mirror your self-view, so your own preview can look reversed compared with what others see. The mirroring doesn’t change what other participants see. It can, however, cause confusion if you practice by copying a video while watching your mirrored preview.