How to Sign "Am"
This word does not have a sign, it is a word that will need to be finger spelled. You can spell it out with each individual letter. A-M
Examples Using "Am" in a Sentence
1
I am tired.
In everyday ASL, you actually drop the word 'am'. You would simply point to yourself for 'I' and then sign 'TIRED'. You only fingerspell A-M if you are practicing exact English.
2
The word is 'am'.
If you are teaching or emphasizing the English word itself, you would sign 'WORD', point to indicate the word, and then smoothly fingerspell A-M.
3
I am going to the store.
Again, ASL grammar omits 'to be' verbs. A fluent signer will sign 'I GO STORE'. Fingerspelling A-M here is generally unnecessary unless you are signing in Signed Exact English (SEE).
How to Sign "Am"
This word does not have a sign, it is a word that will need to be finger spelled. You can spell it out with each individual letter. A-M
Visual Logic(Etymology)
Because this word is fingerspelled, its visual logic comes from the ASL manual alphabet. The 'A' handshape resembles the closed shape of a lowercase 'a', while the 'M' handshape drapes three fingers over the thumb to represent the three downward strokes of a lowercase 'm'.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling A-M, keep your hand steady at about shoulder height with your palm facing outward. Try to make the transition from the 'A' handshape to the 'M' handshape as smooth as possible without bouncing or dropping your wrist.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake beginners make is trying to fingerspell A-M in every sentence that uses it in English. Remember that ASL has its own grammar, and 'to be' verbs are almost always omitted. Another physical mistake is 'punching' or bouncing the hand forward for each letter.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Am" in a Sentence
1I am tired.
In everyday ASL, you actually drop the word 'am'. You would simply point to yourself for 'I' and then sign 'TIRED'. You only fingerspell A-M if you are practicing exact English.
2The word is 'am'.
If you are teaching or emphasizing the English word itself, you would sign 'WORD', point to indicate the word, and then smoothly fingerspell A-M.
3I am going to the store.
Again, ASL grammar omits 'to be' verbs. A fluent signer will sign 'I GO STORE'. Fingerspelling A-M here is generally unnecessary unless you are signing in Signed Exact English (SEE).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign 'am' every time I say it in English?
No, you rarely need to sign it! ASL is a distinct language that does not use 'to be' verbs like 'am', 'is', or 'are'. For example, 'I am happy' is simply signed as 'I HAPPY'.
How do I transition smoothly from A to M?
Keep your hand in one place. Start with your thumb resting against the side of your closed fist for 'A'. To switch to 'M', simply lift your index, middle, and ring fingers, slide your thumb underneath them, and rest them back down.
Should my palm face me or the person I am talking to?
When fingerspelling words like A-M to another person, your palm should face outward toward them. Keep your elbow relaxed and your hand in a comfortable 'fingerspelling space' near your shoulder or chin.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!