Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Go Outside"

To sign 'go outside', you will combine the signs for OUTSIDE and GO. First, hold your dominant hand open near your face, then pull it outward while closing your fingers and thumb together into a flattened 'O' shape. Next, transition into the sign for GO by extending both index fingers (with the rest of your fingers curled) and moving both hands forward together in a sweeping motion.

Examples Using "Go Outside" in a Sentence

1

I want to go outside.

Point to yourself for 'I', pull your open hands toward your body while curling the fingers for 'WANT', and then perform the 'GO OUTSIDE' sequence.

2

Let's go outside and play.

Sign 'WE' by moving your index finger from your dominant shoulder to your other shoulder, sign 'GO OUTSIDE', and then shake two 'Y' handshapes for 'PLAY'.

3

The dog needs to go outside.

Pat your leg and snap for 'DOG', tap an 'X' handshape downward for 'NEED', and finish by signing 'GO OUTSIDE' as demonstrated in the video.

How to Sign "Go Outside"
To sign 'go outside', you will combine the signs for OUTSIDE and GO. First, hold your dominant hand open near your face, then pull it outward while closing your fingers and thumb together into a flattened 'O' shape. Next, transition into the sign for GO by extending both index fingers (with the rest of your fingers curled) and moving both hands forward together in a sweeping motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase combines two highly iconic signs. The first part, OUTSIDE, visually represents taking something out of a container or exiting an enclosed space. The second part, GO, uses the index fingers to physically point and trace the path of movement toward a destination, making the action very literal.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping the transition between the two signs fluid but distinct. When signing OUTSIDE, ensure the pulling motion is clear before you extend your index fingers for GO. Because GO is a directional sign, you can enhance your meaning by looking and pointing in the actual direction of the door or the outside area you are referring to.
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes rush the compound, blending the handshapes together until they become unclear. Make sure you fully close your dominant hand into the flattened 'O' shape for OUTSIDE before extending your index fingers for GO. Additionally, ensure both index fingers move parallel to each other rather than crossing.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Go Outside" in a Sentence
1

I want to go outside.

Point to yourself for 'I', pull your open hands toward your body while curling the fingers for 'WANT', and then perform the 'GO OUTSIDE' sequence.

2

Let's go outside and play.

Sign 'WE' by moving your index finger from your dominant shoulder to your other shoulder, sign 'GO OUTSIDE', and then shake two 'Y' handshapes for 'PLAY'.

3

The dog needs to go outside.

Pat your leg and snap for 'DOG', tap an 'X' handshape downward for 'NEED', and finish by signing 'GO OUTSIDE' as demonstrated in the video.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just sign OUTSIDE to mean 'go outside'?

Yes! In many conversational contexts, simply signing OUTSIDE is enough to convey the meaning of going outside. Adding the sign for GO just makes the action of moving there more explicit.

Does it matter which direction I point when signing GO?

Yes, GO is a directional sign. You should point your index fingers in the actual direction you intend to go (like toward the nearest door), or simply forward if you are referring to the general outdoors.

Do I need to use both hands for the GO portion?

While the standard, formal sign for GO uses both hands as shown in the video, it is very commonly signed with just the dominant hand in casual, everyday conversation.

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