How to Sign “Answer” in American Sign Language

In American Sign Language (ASL), “answer” is commonly signed with both index fingers. The fingers start pointing up near the mouth and then tip forward together, as if your words are moving out toward the other person. The steps below break the sign into parts, explain where context changes the meaning, and list what this guide cannot confirm for you.

The short answer

Hold up both index fingers with the other fingers curled in. Place your dominant index finger near your mouth or chin and your other index finger a little in front of it and slightly lower. Then move both hands forward and down at the same time, so both index fingers end up pointing away from you with your palms facing down.

Please note that no source documents were supplied for this article. This description reflects the form widely taught in ASL. Before relying on it, compare it with a video from a reputable ASL dictionary or with a fluent Deaf signer.

Step by step

• 1. Handshape: On both hands, extend the index finger and curl the other fingers and the thumb in. This is often called a “1” handshape.
• 2. Starting position: Bring the tip of your dominant index finger close to your mouth or chin, pointing up. Hold your non-dominant index finger in front of it, slightly lower and farther from your body, also pointing up.
• 3. Movement: Bend both wrists forward and move both hands outward together, in one smooth motion.
• 4. Ending position: Both index fingers point forward, toward the person you are addressing, with palms facing down.
• 5. Facial expression: Keep your face neutral for a plain statement. Change it to fit a question or emphasis, as described below.

How context changes the sign

Whether “answer” is a noun or a verb: ASL often uses the same basic sign for “an answer” and “to answer.” Context and the surrounding signs usually show which meaning you intend. Signers may make the movement shorter or repeat it for the noun, but this varies between signers. Check this point with a reference.

Direction: Signers often aim the movement toward the person being answered. That direction can carry meaning, such as “I answer you” compared with a general reply.

Asking for an answer: ASL marks questions mainly with facial expression, not with a separate word. Yes/no questions usually use raised eyebrows. Questions that ask who, what or why usually use lowered brows. If you sign “answer” without the right expression, it may read as a statement rather than a request.

Answering the phone: “Answer the phone” is usually expressed with signs related to the telephone, not with the general sign shown here. Look this up separately if that is the meaning you need.

Other sign languages: This guide covers ASL, which is used mainly in the United States and parts of Canada. British Sign Language, Auslan and other sign languages use different signs. Regional and personal variation also exists within ASL.

How to check that you are signing it correctly

Watch a video of the sign from a reliable ASL dictionary or course. Then compare your version on four points: handshape, starting location, direction of movement and ending position. A written description cannot show you speed, how sharp the motion is, or the facial expression. Those details are best learned by watching and copying a fluent signer, and by asking for feedback if you can.

What this guide does not confirm

• No dictionary entries, videos or expert reviews were supplied, so the description above has not been checked against a specific source.
• Variants for the noun form and for regional use are mentioned as possibilities only. They are not documented here.
• The sign for “answer the phone” and the equivalents in non-ASL sign languages are not described here.