Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Any"

To sign “Any”, Using your dominant hand into “A” handshape or a closed fist with a thumb on the side of your fist. Your dominant hand front of your chest and twist your hand curve in an opposite direction. If you are right handed, you move it to left, same with for left handed, move it to right.

Examples Using "Any" in a Sentence

1

Do you have any questions?

Sign 'YOU', 'HAVE', then sign 'ANY' by forming an 'A' handshape and twisting it across your chest toward your opposite side. Finish with 'QUESTIONS' while raising your eyebrows to show it is a yes/no question.

2

You can pick any color.

Sign 'YOU', 'CAN', 'PICK', then sign 'ANY' by making the 'A' handshape and twisting it inward across your body. Conclude the sentence by signing 'COLOR'.

3

I don't have any cash.

Sign 'I', 'NOT', 'HAVE', then perform the sign for 'ANY' by twisting your 'A' handshape toward your non-dominant side. Finish by signing 'MONEY' while shaking your head slightly.

How to Sign "Any"
To sign “Any”, Using your dominant hand into “A” handshape or a closed fist with a thumb on the side of your fist. Your dominant hand front of your chest and twist your hand curve in an opposite direction. If you are right handed, you move it to left, same with for left handed, move it to right.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'any' is an initialized sign, meaning it uses the first letter of the English word (the 'A' handshape) to represent the concept. The sweeping, twisting motion across the space in front of your chest visually represents encompassing a group of options or selecting randomly from a broad range of possibilities, showing that 'any' single choice will do.
Signing Tips
To make the sign for 'any' look natural, focus on a smooth, fluid twist of your wrist. Keep your 'A' handshape relaxed but clear, ensuring your thumb rests visibly on the side of your fist rather than tucked away. Start with your hand comfortably in front of your chest, and let the twisting motion naturally guide your hand across your body. Don't overextend your arm; keep the movement compact.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using an 'S' handshape (where the thumb wraps across the front of the fingers) instead of the correct 'A' handshape (where the thumb rests on the side). Another frequent error is moving the hand outward away from the body instead of sweeping it across the chest toward the opposite side. Remember: right-handed signers move left, and left-handed signers move right.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Any" in a Sentence
1

Do you have any questions?

Sign 'YOU', 'HAVE', then sign 'ANY' by forming an 'A' handshape and twisting it across your chest toward your opposite side. Finish with 'QUESTIONS' while raising your eyebrows to show it is a yes/no question.

2

You can pick any color.

Sign 'YOU', 'CAN', 'PICK', then sign 'ANY' by making the 'A' handshape and twisting it inward across your body. Conclude the sentence by signing 'COLOR'.

3

I don't have any cash.

Sign 'I', 'NOT', 'HAVE', then perform the sign for 'ANY' by twisting your 'A' handshape toward your non-dominant side. Finish by signing 'MONEY' while shaking your head slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which way I twist my hand?

Yes, the direction depends entirely on your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, you should twist and move your 'A' handshape toward your left side. If you are left-handed, you will twist and move it toward your right side. This inward, cross-body motion is essential.

What is the exact difference between the 'A' handshape and the 'S' handshape?

For the 'A' handshape used in 'any,' your thumb should rest straight along the side of your curled index finger. In an 'S' handshape, the thumb wraps across the front of your curled fingers like a traditional boxing fist. Proper thumb placement makes your sign much clearer.

Can I use this sign to mean 'anyone' or 'anything'?

Yes, you can combine this base sign with others to build those concepts! For 'anyone,' you would sign 'ANY' followed immediately by the sign for 'ONE.' For 'anything,' you sign 'ANY' followed by 'THING.' The twisting 'A' handshape motion remains exactly the same.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!