How to Sign "Best Friends"

To sign 'best friends', form an 'R' handshape with your dominant hand by crossing your middle finger over your index finger. Hold your hand up in front of your shoulder with your palm facing forward. Gently shake your hand from side to side a couple of times.

Examples Using "Best Friends" in a Sentence

1

She is my best friend.

Point to the person to sign 'SHE', sign 'MY' by placing your flat hand on your chest, and finish with the sign for 'best friends'.

2

We are best friends.

Use your index finger to point between yourself and the other person to sign 'WE', then perform the sign for 'best friends'.

3

My best friend is coming over.

Sign 'MY', then 'best friends', and finally use the sign for 'COME' by bringing your index fingers toward your body.

How to Sign "Best Friends"
To sign 'best friends', form an 'R' handshape with your dominant hand by crossing your middle finger over your index finger. Hold your hand up in front of your shoulder with your palm facing forward. Gently shake your hand from side to side a couple of times.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign uses the 'R' handshape, where the crossed fingers visually represent two people who are tightly bonded or intertwined. The crossed fingers are a common cultural symbol for closeness, perfectly illustrating the tight relationship between best friends.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping the shaking motion small and controlled, pivoting slightly at the wrist. Ensure your middle finger is clearly crossed over your index finger to form a distinct 'R' handshape, as this distinguishes the sign from others.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a 'U' or 'H' handshape where the fingers are parallel instead of crossed. Another mistake is making the shaking motion too large and frantic; it should be a subtle, gentle side-to-side movement.
Regional Variations
While the 'R' handshape is widely understood, some signers prefer to sign 'best friend' by signing 'FRIEND' with a much tighter, firmer grip, or by combining the signs for 'BEST' and 'FRIEND'.
Examples Using "Best Friends" in a Sentence
1

She is my best friend.

Point to the person to sign 'SHE', sign 'MY' by placing your flat hand on your chest, and finish with the sign for 'best friends'.

2

We are best friends.

Use your index finger to point between yourself and the other person to sign 'WE', then perform the sign for 'best friends'.

3

My best friend is coming over.

Sign 'MY', then 'best friends', and finally use the sign for 'COME' by bringing your index fingers toward your body.

Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from the standard sign for 'friend'?

The standard sign for 'friend' uses two hooked index fingers linking together twice. 'Best friends' uses a single 'R' handshape shaken side to side to show a tighter, more exclusive bond.

Can I use this sign to refer to a single best friend?

Yes! This sign is used interchangeably for both 'best friend' (singular) and 'best friends' (plural). The context of your sentence will make the number clear.

Does it matter which hand I use?

You should use your dominant hand to perform this sign. If you are right-handed, use your right hand; if you are left-handed, use your left.

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