Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Later"

To sign 'later', bring the pinkie, ring, and middle fingers down against the palm, leaving the index finger and thumb outstretched in the L shape. Bring the hand up so the tip of the thumb is in the air close to the cheek. Bring the hand out, turning the hand down slightly as you bring it away from you.

Examples Using "Later" in a Sentence

1

I will do my homework later.

Sign 'homework', then bring your 'L' handshape up near your cheek and pivot it outward and slightly down to indicate that the action will happen in the future.

2

See you later!

Sign 'see' by bringing your 'V' handshape from your eye, point to the person, and then execute the 'later' sign by turning your 'L' hand downward from your cheek.

3

Can we eat later?

Sign 'eat', then use the 'later' sign by pivoting your 'L' handshape forward from your cheek. Remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward to show you are asking a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Later"
To sign 'later', bring the pinkie, ring, and middle fingers down against the palm, leaving the index finger and thumb outstretched in the L shape. Bring the hand up so the tip of the thumb is in the air close to the cheek. Bring the hand out, turning the hand down slightly as you bring it away from you.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'later' is visually related to the concept of time moving forward. The 'L' handshape acts like the hand of a clock. By pivoting the index finger forward and downward away from you, you are visually representing the hands of a clock advancing into the future.
Signing Tips
Keep your 'L' handshape crisp by ensuring your pinkie, ring, and middle fingers are tucked tightly against your palm. When pivoting the hand forward and down, let the movement come naturally from your wrist rather than moving your entire arm. Think of your thumb as a hinge hovering near your cheek.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving the whole arm forward instead of just pivoting at the wrist. Make sure the thumb stays relatively close to its starting position near the cheek while the index finger drops forward. Also, avoid letting your tucked fingers pop back up during the motion.
Regional Variations
While this one-handed version near the face is very common, you might also see 'later' signed with two hands. In that variation, the dominant 'L' hand acts as a clock hand pivoting forward against the open palm of the non-dominant hand.
Examples Using "Later" in a Sentence
1

I will do my homework later.

Sign 'homework', then bring your 'L' handshape up near your cheek and pivot it outward and slightly down to indicate that the action will happen in the future.

2

See you later!

Sign 'see' by bringing your 'V' handshape from your eye, point to the person, and then execute the 'later' sign by turning your 'L' hand downward from your cheek.

3

Can we eat later?

Sign 'eat', then use the 'later' sign by pivoting your 'L' handshape forward from your cheek. Remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward to show you are asking a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'later' the same as 'after'?

They are similar in concept but signed differently. 'Later' refers to a point in time in the future and uses the 'L' handshape pivoting forward. 'After' typically uses both hands to show one physical thing or event crossing over or following another.

Do I need to touch my cheek when signing 'later'?

No, you don't need to physically touch your cheek. The tip of your thumb should just be in the air close to your cheek. Keep it hovering slightly away from your face as you pivot your hand outward.

Can I use this sign for the phrase 'See you later'?

Absolutely! This sign is perfectly suited for that common farewell. You can sign 'see', point to the person you are talking to, and then use this 'L' handshape pivoting forward to complete the phrase.

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