How to Sign "Another"
To sign 'another', form an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your thumb extended slightly upward. Start with your hand in front of your chest, palm facing your non-dominant side. In a quick, smooth motion, flip your hand over in a small arc outward so your palm faces up and your thumb points away from your body.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'another' is highly intuitive and visually represents the concept of an alternative. The flipping motion of the hand mimics the physical action of turning something over to reveal a second option, a different side, or something else entirely. By starting with the hand facing one way and flipping it to face the opposite direction, the sign perfectly captures the idea of shifting from one choice or item to an additional one.
Signing Tips
When signing 'another', the key is to keep your wrist relaxed so the flipping motion looks natural, fluid, and effortless. Make sure your thumb is clearly visible and extended slightly upward throughout the entire movement. The arc should be relatively small and contained in front of your body, rather than a large, sweeping gesture. Practicing this quick wrist turn will help you transition smoothly into the next sign in your sentence.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is keeping their palm facing downwards or sideways at the end of the sign, rather than fully completing the wrist flip. If you don't turn your hand over completely, the sign can look sloppy or be confused with other gestures. Additionally, be careful not to use your index finger instead of your thumb; extending the index finger changes the handshape entirely and could look like the sign for 'someone' or 'single'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Another" in a Sentence
1Can I have another cookie?
Sign 'another' right before signing 'cookie' to indicate you want one more of the same item. The quick flip of the wrist emphasizes the addition.
2Let's go another way.
Use the sign for 'another' followed by 'way' to suggest an alternative route or method. The sign naturally bridges the transition between the two concepts.
3Do you have another pen?
Point to the person, sign 'have', and then use the 'another' sign before signing 'pen'. This structure clearly asks if a second option is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'another' the same as 'other'?
Yes! In ASL, the exact same sign is used for 'another', 'other', and 'else'. The context of your sentence and your facial expressions will make the specific English translation clear to the person you are signing with.
Should I use my right or left hand?
You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs like 'another'. If you are right-handed, use your right hand and flip it outward to the right; if you are left-handed, use your left hand and flip it outward to the left.
Can I use this sign to mean 'any'?
No, 'any' has its own distinct sign. While 'any' also uses an 'A' handshape, it involves a different movement where the hand is drawn downward and outward. Stick to the flipping motion specifically for 'another' or 'other'.
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