How to Sign "Call"
To sign 'call', press the index, middle, and ring fingers against the palm, leaving the thumb and pinkies outstretched. Bring the hand up to the ear, with the thumb at the ear and the pinkie towards the mouth.
Examples Using "Call" in a Sentence
1
I will call you tomorrow.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'tomorrow', and then use the 'call' sign by bringing your thumb to your ear and your pinkie toward your mouth.
2
Did your mom call?
Raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question. Sign 'your', 'mom', and then perform the sign for 'call' by placing the Y-handshape next to your ear.
3
Please call the doctor.
Sign 'please', then 'doctor', and finish with the 'call' sign, ensuring your thumb rests near your ear and your pinkie points toward your mouth.
How to Sign "Call"
To sign 'call', press the index, middle, and ring fingers against the palm, leaving the thumb and pinkies outstretched. Bring the hand up to the ear, with the thumb at the ear and the pinkie towards the mouth.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, meaning it looks exactly like the action it represents. The handshape perfectly mimics holding a traditional telephone receiver, with the thumb acting as the earpiece and the outstretched pinkie acting as the mouthpiece.
Signing Tips
When signing 'call', make sure to use a clear 'Y' handshape. Keep your thumb lightly touching or hovering just next to your ear, and let your pinkie point toward your mouth. You do not need to press firmly against your face; a slight hover is perfectly natural.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a flat hand or a 'C' handshape instead of the 'Y' handshape. Beginners also sometimes block their mouth by bringing their hand too far forward. Keep your hand to the side of your face so your facial expressions remain clearly visible.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Call" in a Sentence
1I will call you tomorrow.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'tomorrow', and then use the 'call' sign by bringing your thumb to your ear and your pinkie toward your mouth.
2Did your mom call?
Raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question. Sign 'your', 'mom', and then perform the sign for 'call' by placing the Y-handshape next to your ear.
3Please call the doctor.
Sign 'please', then 'doctor', and finish with the 'call' sign, ensuring your thumb rests near your ear and your pinkie points toward your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move the sign to show who is calling whom?
Yes! 'Call' can act as a directional verb. While the base sign is held at your ear, you can move the handshape from your ear outward toward someone to mean 'I call you,' or from outward toward your ear to mean 'you call me.'
Does this sign work for video calls or texting?
No, this specific sign is used for traditional voice phone calls. There are different, distinct signs for making a video call (often using 'C' or '5' handshapes) or for texting (mimicking typing with your thumbs on a smartphone).
Do I need to physically touch my ear and mouth?
You do not need to make firm contact. Lightly touching your thumb to your ear or simply hovering the hand close to the side of your face is the most natural and comfortable way to sign it.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!