How to Sign "At"
Spell "AT." Using one hand start with the letter "A" then proceed to the letter "T" at a comfortable speed and at a position in relation to the body that is comfortable and visible to the intended audience.
Examples Using "At" in a Sentence
1
I am at the store.
In exact English word order, you would sign 'I', 'am', fingerspell A-T for 'at', and then sign 'store'. Remember to keep your hand steady while transitioning from the 'A' to the 'T'.
2
Look at me.
While true ASL often uses directional verbs to show who is looking at whom, if you are signing this phrase word-for-word, you will sign 'look', fingerspell A-T, and then point to yourself for 'me'.
3
We meet at noon.
To sign this using English structure, you would sign 'we', 'meet', fingerspell A-T, and then sign 'noon'. Ensure the letters are spelled at a comfortable speed so your audience can read them clearly.
How to Sign "At"
Spell "AT." Using one hand start with the letter "A" then proceed to the letter "T" at a comfortable speed and at a position in relation to the body that is comfortable and visible to the intended audience.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a direct fingerspelling of the English word 'at'. Because it is a very short, two-letter word, it is simply spelled out using the American Manual Alphabet. The visual logic relies entirely on the standard shapes for the letters 'A' and 'T' rather than a conceptual representation of a location.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling short words like 'at', focus on a smooth, fluid transition rather than bouncing your hand between letters. Keep your hand steady in your comfortable signing space, usually around your upper chest or shoulder area. Make sure your thumb placement is clear when shifting from the 'A' handshape (thumb resting on the side of the index finger) to the 'T' handshape (thumb tucked under the index finger).
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is bouncing their hand or pushing it forward for each letter. Keep your hand still and let your fingers do the work. Another mistake is rushing the transition, which can make the 'A' and 'T' blend together into an unclear shape. Take your time to form each letter distinctly.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "At" in a Sentence
1I am at the store.
In exact English word order, you would sign 'I', 'am', fingerspell A-T for 'at', and then sign 'store'. Remember to keep your hand steady while transitioning from the 'A' to the 'T'.
2Look at me.
While true ASL often uses directional verbs to show who is looking at whom, if you are signing this phrase word-for-word, you will sign 'look', fingerspell A-T, and then point to yourself for 'me'.
3We meet at noon.
To sign this using English structure, you would sign 'we', 'meet', fingerspell A-T, and then sign 'noon'. Ensure the letters are spelled at a comfortable speed so your audience can read them clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign 'at' in every sentence?
In true American Sign Language (ASL), small prepositions like 'at' are often omitted because the location or direction is built into the verb or context. However, you will use it when fingerspelling exact English sentences or emphasizing a specific location.
Can I use this to sign the '@' symbol in an email address?
Yes, you can fingerspell A-T to represent the '@' symbol in an email address. However, be aware that there is also a specific, separate sign for the '@' symbol that involves drawing a circle in the air.
Should I bounce my hand between the 'A' and the 'T'?
No, try to keep your hand steady. Bouncing makes fingerspelling much harder to read. Keep your wrist relaxed and in a comfortable position, letting only your fingers and thumb move to change from the 'A' to the 'T'.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!