How to Sign “Act” in ASL

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign usually taught for “act” in the sense of acting, performing, drama or theater uses both hands in an A handshape. An A handshape is a closed fist with the thumb resting upright along the side of the index finger. With the hands near the upper chest, move them in alternating circles so the thumbs brush downward against the chest, one hand after the other. The same sign often covers the related ideas of drama, theater and performing, and context shows which one is meant.

This guide covers ASL, which is used in the United States and parts of Canada. Other sign languages, such as British Sign Language, have their own signs, and the ASL sign may not carry over.

First, decide which “act” you mean

ASL chooses signs based on meaning, not on the English word. The acting sign above is only right for the performance meaning. For other meanings, look up a different sign:

• Acting, performing, drama or theater: use the sign described in this guide.
• To act in the sense of doing something or taking action: ASL generally uses a separate sign, often glossed as DO. Look it up on its own rather than using the acting sign.
• To act in a certain way, meaning to behave: this is a different concept, so search for the specific meaning you want to express.
• A law, such as an act passed by a legislature, or a named exam such as the ACT: signers commonly fingerspell the name or use a sign for the general concept, such as LAW, depending on context.
• An act as a section of a play: choose a sign or fingerspelling based on context, and confirm with a reference or a fluent signer.

Step by step: signing “act” as in performing

• 1. Form an A handshape with each hand: make a fist and rest the thumb upright against the side of the index finger.
• 2. Turn the hands so the thumbs are near your upper chest, one hand on each side.
• 3. Move the hands in small circles, alternating them so one is coming down while the other goes up.
• 4. As each hand comes down, let the thumb brush lightly downward against your chest.
• 5. Repeat the alternating motion a couple of times in a smooth, relaxed rhythm.

Details such as circle size, the exact path of the circle and the number of repetitions can vary between signers and between references. If your source shows a slightly different version, that does not necessarily mean either one is wrong.

How to check that you have it right

A written description cannot fully show movement, so compare your sign with a video from a reputable ASL dictionary or a Deaf ASL instructor. Check four things against the reference: the handshape, where the hands are placed, how they move and which way the palms face. Watching yourself in a mirror or a recording of yourself can help you spot differences.

Self-checking confirms only that your sign resembles the reference. It cannot confirm that it reads naturally or that it suits your region or community. Feedback from a fluent signer, ideally a Deaf one, is the most reliable check. Keep in mind that in real conversation, facial expression and context also carry meaning, beyond the hand movement alone.

Limitations of this guide

This guide was written without supplied source material. The description reflects the form commonly taught for the performing sense of “act,” not a verified dictionary entry. Regional and personal variation exists in ASL. Before using the sign in a setting where accuracy matters, such as a presentation, a class or interpreting, confirm it against a trusted video reference or with a fluent signer.