How to Sign "Eight"
To sign 'eight', splay the fingers of the dominant hand. Bring the thumb in, and bring the middle finger down so the tip of the middle finger touches the tip of the thumb.
Examples Using "Eight" in a Sentence
1
I have eight apples.
Sign 'eight' by touching the tip of your middle finger to your thumb, keeping the other fingers splayed, followed by the sign for 'apples'.
2
My class starts at eight o'clock.
Tap your wrist with your index finger to indicate time, then form the 'eight' handshape by bringing your middle finger down to your thumb.
3
She is eight years old.
Sign 'old' by pulling your hand down from your chin in a grasping motion, then smoothly transition into the 'eight' handshape.
How to Sign "Eight"
To sign 'eight', splay the fingers of the dominant hand. Bring the thumb in, and bring the middle finger down so the tip of the middle finger touches the tip of the thumb.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
In American Sign Language, the numbers six through nine are formed by touching the thumb to each consecutive finger, starting with the pinky for six. 'Eight' naturally falls on the middle finger, creating a visual and sequential counting system.
Signing Tips
Keep your index, ring, and pinky fingers comfortably splayed and pointing upward. Make sure the connection between your thumb and middle finger forms a clear, round circle. When counting normally, your palm should face outward toward the person you are signing to.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake is touching the ring finger to the thumb instead of the middle finger, which accidentally creates the sign for 'nine'. Another common error is letting your other fingers curl inward; keep them straight and splayed so the number is easy to read.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Eight" in a Sentence
1I have eight apples.
Sign 'eight' by touching the tip of your middle finger to your thumb, keeping the other fingers splayed, followed by the sign for 'apples'.
2My class starts at eight o'clock.
Tap your wrist with your index finger to indicate time, then form the 'eight' handshape by bringing your middle finger down to your thumb.
3She is eight years old.
Sign 'old' by pulling your hand down from your chin in a grasping motion, then smoothly transition into the 'eight' handshape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which way should my palm face when signing 'eight'?
When counting, giving a quantity, or signing a phone number, your palm should face outward toward the viewer. Your hand should remain comfortably upright.
How do I remember which finger to use for 'eight'?
Remember that the numbers 6, 7, 8, and 9 move sequentially across your fingers starting from the outside. Six is the pinky, seven is the ring finger, and eight is the middle finger.
Do I need to move my hand when signing 'eight'?
No, 'eight' is a static sign. You simply form the handshape with your middle finger and thumb touching, without shaking or moving your hand, unless it is part of a larger number like 'eighty'.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!