To sign 'can we be friends,' start by pointing your index finger at yourself, then point towards the person you are talking to, indicating 'you and me.' Next, sign 'friend' by hooking both index fingers and linking them together, first with your dominant finger on top, then switching so the non-dominant finger is on top. Throughout the entire phrase, keep your eyebrows raised and lean slightly forward to show you are asking a yes/no question.
Sign 'I new here' to establish your situation, then smoothly transition into the 'can we be friends' sequence with raised eyebrows.
Point to the person and sign 'nice', then use a warm, hopeful facial expression while signing 'can we be friends'.
Sign 'my dog wants', then direct the 'can we be friends' sign toward the other person or their pet, keeping the question expression clear.
Sign 'I new here' to establish your situation, then smoothly transition into the 'can we be friends' sequence with raised eyebrows.
Point to the person and sign 'nice', then use a warm, hopeful facial expression while signing 'can we be friends'.
Sign 'my dog wants', then direct the 'can we be friends' sign toward the other person or their pet, keeping the question expression clear.
No, in ASL, you don't need to sign the literal word 'can' for this phrase. Your raised eyebrows and questioning facial expression turn the concepts of 'you, me, friend' into the question 'can we be friends?'
It is standard practice to start with your dominant index finger on top of your non-dominant index finger, and then switch them. However, people will still perfectly understand you if you happen to do it the other way around.
Your facial expression is key! A warm, friendly smile paired with your raised eyebrows and a slight forward lean will show your genuine interest and openness to forming a new friendship.
