Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "However"

Form both hands into "1" handshapes with your index fingers extended and other fingers curled. Cross your index fingers in front of your chest with your palms facing somewhat inward. Pull your hands apart, moving them horizontally outward to the sides.

Examples Using "However" in a Sentence

1

I want to go; however, I am tired.

Start by signing "I want go" to establish your initial thought. Then, use the "however" sign by crossing and separating your index fingers to show the contrast, and finish the sentence by signing "I tired."

2

The food is good; however, it is expensive.

First, sign "food good" with a positive facial expression. Pause briefly and sign "however" by pulling your crossed index fingers apart to introduce the catch, then finish with "expensive."

3

I like dogs; however, I am allergic.

Begin by signing "I like dogs." Create a clear transition by using the "however" sign, moving your crossed index fingers apart horizontally, and then complete the thought by signing "I allergic."

How to Sign "However"
Form both hands into "1" handshapes with your index fingers extended and other fingers curled. Cross your index fingers in front of your chest with your palms facing somewhat inward. Pull your hands apart, moving them horizontally outward to the sides.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "however" is visually rooted in the concept of two things diverging or going in separate directions. By starting with the index fingers crossed and then pulling them apart, the sign physically represents a contrast, a change in direction, or an opposing thought. This visual logic is highly iconic for transitions. You will notice that this exact same base motion is used for related concepts like "but," sharing the underlying idea of a divergence from the original statement.
Signing Tips
When signing "however," focus on keeping your index fingers clearly extended while the rest of your fingers remain tucked away. The movement should be crisp, deliberate, and horizontal. To make your signing more expressive, use your facial expressions to convey the contrast or shift in thought that the word implies. A slight head tilt, a pause, or a change in your eyebrow position can perfectly emphasize the transition. Keep the sign comfortably centered in front of your chest rather than making the movement too large.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using a loose handshape instead of a crisp "1" handshape, which can make the sign look sloppy. Another common error is pulling the hands too far apart. The movement only needs to be a few inches to each side; making it too wide can confuse the sign with "different" or "separate." Additionally, avoid bouncing your hands up and down as you pull them apart. The motion should be a straightforward, clean horizontal separation.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "However" in a Sentence
1

I want to go; however, I am tired.

Start by signing "I want go" to establish your initial thought. Then, use the "however" sign by crossing and separating your index fingers to show the contrast, and finish the sentence by signing "I tired."

2

The food is good; however, it is expensive.

First, sign "food good" with a positive facial expression. Pause briefly and sign "however" by pulling your crossed index fingers apart to introduce the catch, then finish with "expensive."

3

I like dogs; however, I am allergic.

Begin by signing "I like dogs." Create a clear transition by using the "however" sign, moving your crossed index fingers apart horizontally, and then complete the thought by signing "I allergic."

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for "however" the same as "but"?

Yes, in ASL, "however" and "but" use the exact same sign. You cross your index fingers and pull them apart to show a contrast or change in thought. The context of your sentence will make the exact English translation clear to the person you are signing with.

How big should the movement be?

The movement should be relatively small and contained within the space right in front of your chest. Pulling your hands too far apart makes it look like the sign for "different." A crisp, short movement of just a few inches is perfect for "however."

Do I need to mouth the word "however"?

You don't necessarily need to mouth the full English word. Instead, focus on letting your facial expression show a shift in thought. A slight pause, a change in your head position, or a subtle shift in your eyebrows helps convey the contrasting meaning perfectly.

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