How to Sign "Quarter"

To sign *quarter* (as in the 25-cent coin), start by touching the side of your forehead with the tip of your dominant index finger, keeping your thumb extended. As you pull your hand away and slightly forward, extend your middle finger as well. Wiggle your middle finger downward a couple of times to form the ASL number 25. This fluid motion combines the sign for *cent* with the number 25.

Examples Using "Quarter" in a Sentence

1

I need a quarter for the vending machine.

Sign *quarter* by starting at the forehead for *cent* and smoothly transitioning into the number *25* as you pull your hand away.

2

Do you have a quarter I can borrow?

Use this sign to specifically ask for the 25-cent coin, ensuring you touch your forehead first so it isn't confused with just the number 25.

3

The total is one dollar and a quarter.

Sign *one dollar*, then follow up with the sign for *quarter* to indicate the remaining 25 cents.

How to Sign "Quarter"
To sign *quarter* (as in the 25-cent coin), start by touching the side of your forehead with the tip of your dominant index finger, keeping your thumb extended. As you pull your hand away and slightly forward, extend your middle finger as well. Wiggle your middle finger downward a couple of times to form the ASL number 25. This fluid motion combines the sign for *cent* with the number 25.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is a compound sign that visually merges two concepts. It begins with the sign for *cent* (touching the side of the forehead) and smoothly transitions into the ASL number *25* (wiggling the middle finger), literally translating to '25 cents'.
Signing Tips
Focus on making the transition from the forehead to the number 25 smooth and fluid. You don't need to sign a rigid *cent* and then pause before signing *25*. Instead, let your hand naturally open into the 25 handshape with the middle finger wiggling as you pull away from your head.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is signing the number 25 without first touching the forehead, which just means the number '25' rather than specifically '25 cents' or a 'quarter'. Another mistake is using this sign for the fraction 1/4 or a quarter of an hour.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Quarter" in a Sentence
1

I need a quarter for the vending machine.

Sign *quarter* by starting at the forehead for *cent* and smoothly transitioning into the number *25* as you pull your hand away.

2

Do you have a quarter I can borrow?

Use this sign to specifically ask for the 25-cent coin, ensuring you touch your forehead first so it isn't confused with just the number 25.

3

The total is one dollar and a quarter.

Sign *one dollar*, then follow up with the sign for *quarter* to indicate the remaining 25 cents.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for a quarter of an hour?

No, this sign is specifically for the 25-cent coin. If you are talking about time, you would typically sign *15 minutes* instead.

How do I sign the fraction 1/4?

To sign the mathematical fraction 1/4, you sign the number 1, move your hand down slightly, and sign the number 4. The sign shown here is only used for money.

Do I have to touch my forehead?

Yes, touching the side of your forehead establishes that you are talking about cents. Without that initial contact, you are simply signing the number 25.

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