Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Each Other"

Form both hands into 'A' handshapes with your thumbs extended, similar to giving two thumbs up. Hold your hands in front of your chest with one hand slightly higher than the other, pointing your thumbs in opposite directions. Move your hands in a continuous circular motion around each other.

Examples Using "Each Other" in a Sentence

1

We help each other.

Sign 'WE' by pointing from your dominant shoulder to your non-dominant shoulder. Then, use the circular thumbs-up motion for 'EACH-OTHER', followed by the sign for 'HELP' moving back and forth to show mutual support.

2

They look at each other.

First, point to the people around you to establish 'THEY'. Next, perform the 'EACH-OTHER' sign to show mutuality. Finally, sign 'LOOK' using the 'V' handshape with both hands, pointing the fingers toward each other to show their gazes meeting.

3

Let's talk to each other.

Sign 'TALK' using the '4' handshape tapping near your chin. Then, perform the 'EACH-OTHER' sign with your extended thumbs circling one another. This combination clearly shows a mutual exchange of conversation rather than just one person speaking.

How to Sign "Each Other"
Form both hands into 'A' handshapes with your thumbs extended, similar to giving two thumbs up. Hold your hands in front of your chest with one hand slightly higher than the other, pointing your thumbs in opposite directions. Move your hands in a continuous circular motion around each other.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'each other' is highly iconic and visually logical, representing two distinct individuals or entities interacting. The two extended thumbs act as classifiers symbolizing two people facing or engaging with one another. The continuous, circular motion around one another visually depicts a mutual exchange, an ongoing relationship, or a shared interaction between them. This beautiful visual metaphor perfectly captures the concept of mutuality and connection that the English phrase implies.
Signing Tips
When signing 'each other,' focus on keeping the circular motion smooth and continuous, as this beautifully represents an ongoing relationship or mutual action. Ensure your thumbs remain clearly extended and point in opposite directions to distinguish this movement from other signs that use a standard 'A' handshape. It helps to relax your wrists and shoulders to allow for a fluid, natural rotation. Remember that the hands shouldn't touch; they just orbit one another in a comfortable space right in front of your chest.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is keeping their thumbs tucked in instead of extended, which can make the sign look like 'with' or confuse it with other vocabulary. Another common error is moving the hands up and down or side to side rather than in a true circular orbit around each other. Make sure the hands actually circle one another to properly convey the idea of mutuality. Finally, avoid making the circles too large; keep the movement compact and natural.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Each Other" in a Sentence
1

We help each other.

Sign 'WE' by pointing from your dominant shoulder to your non-dominant shoulder. Then, use the circular thumbs-up motion for 'EACH-OTHER', followed by the sign for 'HELP' moving back and forth to show mutual support.

2

They look at each other.

First, point to the people around you to establish 'THEY'. Next, perform the 'EACH-OTHER' sign to show mutuality. Finally, sign 'LOOK' using the 'V' handshape with both hands, pointing the fingers toward each other to show their gazes meeting.

3

Let's talk to each other.

Sign 'TALK' using the '4' handshape tapping near your chin. Then, perform the 'EACH-OTHER' sign with your extended thumbs circling one another. This combination clearly shows a mutual exchange of conversation rather than just one person speaking.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand is on top?

No, it doesn't strictly matter which hand is higher. Most signers naturally place their dominant hand slightly higher or closer to their body for comfort. The meaning remains exactly the same as long as the hands circle each other smoothly.

Can this sign mean anything else?

Yes! Depending on the context of your sentence, this exact same sign can also mean 'associate,' 'fellowship,' 'socialize,' or 'interact.' The core concept of the sign is always about a mutual relationship or a shared exchange between two or more parties.

How big should the circular motion be?

Keep the circles relatively small and contained right in front of your chest. Making the circles too large or wide can look exaggerated and unnatural. A subtle, smooth rotation about the size of a softball is perfect for everyday conversational signing.

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