PocketSign
Basic

Numbers and Quantity Signs

The simplest way to show more than one thing in ASL is to name the thing, then add a number or quantity sign.

All Pluralization lessons
ASL signer showing a clear number handshape for quantity in pluralization

Learn It

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

In English, you might say "five apples." In ASL, a simple beginner pattern is APPLE FIVE.

Sign the noun first so the viewer knows what you are talking about. Then add the number or quantity.

Useful quantity signs include MANY, FEW, SEVERAL, SOME, and NONE.

Try It

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

  1. Sign APPLE FIVE. Keep the number clear after APPLE.
  2. Sign CAT MANY. Add a bigger face if you mean a lot of cats.
  3. Sign BOOK SOME, then STUDENT NONE with a small headshake.

Simple Examples

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

ASL lineAPPLE FIVE.
MeaningFive apples.
TipThe noun comes first, then the exact number.
ASL lineCAT MANY.
MeaningMany cats.
TipMANY shows an amount without giving an exact number.
ASL lineBOOK SOME.
MeaningSome books.
TipSOME shows part of a group.
ASL lineSTUDENT NONE.
MeaningNo students.
TipNONE can show that the group has zero people or things.

Common Mistake

Do not fingerspell or add an English S to make a noun plural. ASL shows quantity with numbers, quantity signs, movement, or space.

Deeper Note

A little more grammar

This separate-sign pattern is a simple bridge. Later lessons can show how numbers blend into signs, how classifiers show groups, and how space can show rows or scattered objects.