How to Sign "Either"

Form a "V" handshape with your non-dominant hand, pointing your index and middle fingers up and slightly forward. Make another "V" handshape with your dominant hand, but point those fingers downward. Tap the fingertips of your dominant hand against the fingertips of your non-dominant hand, alternating back and forth between the two fingers. This alternating motion visually represents the idea of two different options.

Examples Using "Either" in a Sentence

1

You can choose either one.

Point to the options in front of you, then sign "either" by tapping your dominant "V" fingers alternately against your non-dominant "V" fingers, followed by the sign for "choose."

2

I don't like either of them.

Shake your head to indicate a negative while signing "like," then sign "either" to show that neither of the two presented options appeals to you.

3

Either way is fine with me.

Sign "either" by alternating taps on your non-dominant "V" fingers, then sign "fine" by tapping your thumb on your chest with an open hand.

How to Sign "Either"
Form a "V" handshape with your non-dominant hand, pointing your index and middle fingers up and slightly forward. Make another "V" handshape with your dominant hand, but point those fingers downward. Tap the fingertips of your dominant hand against the fingertips of your non-dominant hand, alternating back and forth between the two fingers. This alternating motion visually represents the idea of two different options.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a wonderful example of ASL's visual logic. The two extended fingers on your non-dominant hand literally represent two distinct options, ideas, or paths. By tapping back and forth between them with your dominant hand, you are visually demonstrating the act of considering, weighing, or choosing between those two specific alternatives.
Signing Tips
When signing "either," focus on keeping your non-dominant hand completely still. It serves as the stationary base representing your two choices. Your dominant hand should do all the work, gently tapping back and forth. Ensure your "V" handshapes are crisp, with your thumb holding down your ring and pinky fingers, so the "two choices" are clearly visible.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often accidentally move both hands during this sign, which can make the motion look messy. Remember to keep your non-dominant hand anchored! Another frequent error is tapping both fingers at the exact same time instead of alternating. The back-and-forth alternating motion is crucial because it conveys the meaning of "one or the other."
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Either" in a Sentence
1

You can choose either one.

Point to the options in front of you, then sign "either" by tapping your dominant "V" fingers alternately against your non-dominant "V" fingers, followed by the sign for "choose."

2

I don't like either of them.

Shake your head to indicate a negative while signing "like," then sign "either" to show that neither of the two presented options appeals to you.

3

Either way is fine with me.

Sign "either" by alternating taps on your non-dominant "V" fingers, then sign "fine" by tapping your thumb on your chest with an open hand.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between "either" and "or" in ASL?

While both involve choices, "or" is often signed by shifting your shoulders (a body shift) to present two options in space, or by pointing back and forth. "Either" specifically uses the "V" handshape on both hands with the alternating tapping motion shown here.

Does it matter which finger I tap first?

No, it doesn't matter whether you tap the index or middle finger first. The most important part of the sign is the back-and-forth alternating motion, which clearly conveys the idea of choosing between two things.

Can I use this sign to mean "neither"?

To sign "neither," you can use this exact sign for "either" while simultaneously shaking your head "no" with a negative facial expression. There is also a specific sign for "neither" that moves both hands outward, but combining "either" with a headshake is perfectly understood.

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