PocketSign
Basic

Number Blends for Time and Age

ASL can blend numbers into some time and age signs, so a phrase like THREE-WEEK can become one smooth sign.

All Pluralization lessons
ASL signer blending a number handshape into a time sign for pluralization

Learn It

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

Some ASL signs can carry a number inside the sign. This is called numeral incorporation, but you can think of it as a number blend.

For common time ideas like WEEK, MONTH, DAY, HOUR, and age, numbers 1 through 9 can often blend into the movement.

For 10 or higher, keep it clear and sign the number and the time or age sign separately.

Try It

Practice slowly. Make the face before the sentence is over.

  1. Practice WEEK with a 1 handshape, then change only the handshape to 2, 3, and 4 while the movement stays the same.
  2. Practice MONTH by sliding a number handshape down your other index finger.
  3. Sign BABY FIVE-MONTH OLD. Make FIVE-MONTH one smooth sign, then add OLD or point back to the baby.

Simple Examples

Read the ASL line first, then check the meaning and tip.

ASL lineTHREE-WEEK LATE ME.
MeaningI am three weeks late.
TipTHREE-WEEK uses a 3 handshape with the WEEK movement.
ASL lineBABY FIVE-MONTH OLD.
MeaningThe baby is five months old.
TipFIVE-MONTH blends the number into MONTH.
ASL lineME AGE-8.
MeaningI am eight years old.
TipThe 8 handshape connects with the age movement near the chin.

Common Mistake

Do not force every number into a sign. If the number is 10 or higher, or the blend feels unclear, sign it separately.

Deeper Note

A little more grammar

This is often called the Rule of 9. The number handshape changes, but the base sign keeps its normal place and movement so the viewer can still read it quickly.