Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Next Time"

To sign 'next time', you will combine the signs for 'next' and 'time'. First, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing your chest. Take your flat dominant hand, start it between your chest and your non-dominant hand, and move it forward in a small arc over the non-dominant hand. Finally, change your dominant hand to an index finger and tap the back of your non-dominant wrist, as if pointing to a watch.

Examples Using "Next Time" in a Sentence

1

I will see you next time.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'see' by moving a 'V' handshape from your eyes forward, point to the person for 'you', and finish with 'next time'.

2

Next time, we can go to the park.

Start with 'next time' to establish when this happens. Then sign 'we', 'go', and 'park'.

3

You can try again next time.

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'try' and 'again', and conclude the sentence with the compound sign for 'next time'.

How to Sign "Next Time"
To sign 'next time', you will combine the signs for 'next' and 'time'. First, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing your chest. Take your flat dominant hand, start it between your chest and your non-dominant hand, and move it forward in a small arc over the non-dominant hand. Finally, change your dominant hand to an index finger and tap the back of your non-dominant wrist, as if pointing to a watch.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase is a compound of two highly visual signs. The first part, 'next', uses the dominant hand to physically jump over the non-dominant hand, representing moving forward in a sequence. The second part, 'time', mimics the universal gesture of pointing to a wristwatch.
Signing Tips
Focus on a smooth transition between the two parts of the sign. Your non-dominant hand stays in the same general area for both halves, acting as a stationary base. Let the forward arc of 'next' flow naturally into the downward tap of 'time' without dropping your hands in between.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often make the arc for 'next' too large or rigid. Keep the movement relaxed and concise. Another common error is using a flat hand to tap the wrist for 'time' instead of isolating the index finger, which can make the sign look sloppy.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Next Time" in a Sentence
1

I will see you next time.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'see' by moving a 'V' handshape from your eyes forward, point to the person for 'you', and finish with 'next time'.

2

Next time, we can go to the park.

Start with 'next time' to establish when this happens. Then sign 'we', 'go', and 'park'.

3

You can try again next time.

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'try' and 'again', and conclude the sentence with the compound sign for 'next time'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign both words, or can I just sign 'next'?

While fluent signers might sometimes just sign 'next' if the context is very clear, combining both signs ensures your meaning is perfectly understood, which is the best practice for beginners.

Should my non-dominant hand move?

No, your non-dominant hand should remain relatively still. It acts as a stationary reference point for your dominant hand to jump over and then tap.

How hard should I tap my wrist?

A gentle tap is perfect. You don't need to strike your wrist forcefully; a light touch with the index finger is all that's required to convey 'time'.

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