PocketSign
Practice

CL:A for Buildings and Objects

CL:A can place stationary solid things in space, especially buildings, houses, statues, and objects on a surface.

All Classifiers lessons
ASL signer showing an A handshape for a building or solid object

Learn It

Start with the simple version, then practice it with real signs.

CL:A uses a closed fist with the thumb along the side. It often shows a solid object sitting in one place.

After naming HOUSE, BUILDING, STATUE, LAMP, or another solid object, place CL:A where it belongs in the scene.

This classifier is useful for showing where things are, not just what they are.

StationaryCL:A often marks a solid thing that stays in one spot.
Place itPut the handshape in a clear location on your signing-space map.
Compare spotsUse separate CL:A spots to show one building near or far from another.

Try It

Practice slowly. Make the classifier movement clear and keep the location steady.

  1. Sign HOUSE, then place CL:A on your left.
  2. Sign SCHOOL, then place CL:A farther back on your right.
  3. Sign LAMP, then place CL:A on a CL:B tabletop.

Simple Examples

Read the ASL line first. A dark green pill explains the classifier movement, not an extra sign.

ASL lineHOUSE,CL:A left.
MeaningThe house is on the left.
TipThe A handshape marks the house location.
Classifier movementleftPlace CL:A on the left side and hold it there.
ASL lineBUILDING,CL:A far-right.
MeaningThe building is far to the right.
TipDistance in space helps show location.
Classifier movementfar-rightPlace CL:A farther away on your right to show the building location.
ASL lineTABLE CL:B,LAMP CL:A on-top.
MeaningA lamp is on the table.
TipCL:B gives the surface. CL:A places the object.
Classifier movementon-topPut CL:A on top of the CL:B tabletop and hold it still.

Common Mistake

Do not move CL:A around like a walking person or driving car. It usually shows a solid object placed in space.

Deeper Note

A little more grammar

CL:A is especially useful in locative descriptions. It helps the viewer build a scene by placing stable objects first.