How to Sign “Clever” in American Sign Language

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), “clever” in the sense of quick-witted or intelligent is commonly signed with the sign usually glossed as SMART. Start with the tip of your index finger, or in a common variant a bent middle finger, touching your forehead. Then move your hand forward and away from your head. The outward movement suggests ideas coming out of the mind.

A note on sources: no verified dictionary entry or recording was supplied for this guide, so the description above reflects how the sign is commonly taught, not a checked reference. Signs vary by region, community and age group. Before you rely on this sign in an important conversation, compare it with a reputable ASL dictionary or ask a fluent Deaf signer.

Ambiguities that change the sign

• Which sign language: This guide covers ASL, the sign language most widely used in the United States. British Sign Language, Auslan and other sign languages have their own signs for “clever.” The ASL form should not be assumed to carry over to them.
• Which meaning: English “clever” can mean intelligent or bright, or it can mean sly, crafty or tricky. The forehead sign described here fits the intelligent sense. The cunning sense is usually expressed with a different sign, and this guide does not have verified evidence for that form.
• Sincere or sarcastic: In ASL, facial expression carries grammatical and emotional meaning. A sincere, approving expression reads as praise. An eye-roll or a smirk can make the same sign read as sarcasm.

Step by step

• 1. Use your dominant hand, the one you write with.
• 2. Form the handshape: extend your index finger with the other fingers curled. If you are copying the variant your teacher or community uses, bend your middle finger forward instead.
• 3. Place the fingertip lightly on your forehead.
• 4. Move your hand forward and slightly outward, away from your head, in one smooth motion.
• 5. Match your facial expression to your meaning. Use a positive, impressed look for genuine praise.

How to check that you got it right

Practice in front of a mirror, or record yourself and watch the clip back. A recording is useful because it shows how the sign looks from the viewer’s side. Check three things. The contact point should be your forehead. The motion should move outward instead of staying in place. Your face should match the meaning you intend.

Watch especially for the difference between the starting point and the motion. Several ASL signs related to thinking and knowing also start at the forehead. What separates them is the handshape and the movement. If the outward motion is missing, a viewer may read a different sign.

A mirror or recording can confirm that your hand position and movement match the description. It cannot confirm that the description fits the usage of the people you will be signing with. Only a fluent signer from that community, or a reliable reference they trust, can settle that.