How to Sign "Same"

To sign 'same', bring the index, middle, and ring fingers down so they are flat against the palm, leaving the pinkie and thumb outstretched in the Y hand shape. By moving the elbow, move the Y hand shape back an forth so it goes from left to right. This sign can also be directional; use the pinkie to gesture to the item you are showing relation to, with the thumb either pointing at yourself or a different item.

Examples Using "Same" in a Sentence

1

We have the same shirt.

Sign 'shirt', then use the 'Y' handshape moving back and forth between you and the other person to visually show that your shirts are identical.

2

Those two cars are exactly the same.

Establish the location of the two cars in your signing space, then slide your 'Y' handshape back and forth between those specific locations to indicate they match.

3

I feel the same way.

To say 'me too' or 'I agree', point the thumb of your 'Y' handshape toward your chest and the pinky toward the person you are agreeing with, moving it slightly back and forth.

How to Sign "Same"
To sign 'same', bring the index, middle, and ring fingers down so they are flat against the palm, leaving the pinkie and thumb outstretched in the Y hand shape. By moving the elbow, move the Y hand shape back an forth so it goes from left to right. This sign can also be directional; use the pinkie to gesture to the item you are showing relation to, with the thumb either pointing at yourself or a different item.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The 'Y' handshape in this sign visually acts as a bridge or a set of calipers. The extended thumb and pinky serve as two distinct points of reference. By moving this shape back and forth between two people, objects, or locations, you are visually demonstrating that the two subjects are equal, connected, or identical.
Signing Tips
Focus on the directionality of the sign. The 'Y' handshape acts like a bridge connecting two things. If you are comparing yourself to someone else, point the thumb at yourself and the pinky at them. Keep your wrist relatively firm and let the movement come from your elbow to make the back-and-forth motion clear and natural.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is wiggling the wrist instead of moving the whole forearm from the elbow. Another common error is ignoring the directional aspect; if you are comparing two objects on a table, the 'Y' hand needs to move between those specific objects, not just randomly in front of your chest.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Same" in a Sentence
1

We have the same shirt.

Sign 'shirt', then use the 'Y' handshape moving back and forth between you and the other person to visually show that your shirts are identical.

2

Those two cars are exactly the same.

Establish the location of the two cars in your signing space, then slide your 'Y' handshape back and forth between those specific locations to indicate they match.

3

I feel the same way.

To say 'me too' or 'I agree', point the thumb of your 'Y' handshape toward your chest and the pinky toward the person you are agreeing with, moving it slightly back and forth.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign to say 'me too'?

Yes! This is a very common and natural way to say 'me too' or 'I agree.' Just point the thumb of your 'Y' handshape at yourself and the pinky at the person you are agreeing with, moving it back and forth.

Does it matter which hand I use?

You should generally use your dominant hand to sign 'same.' If you are comparing two items placed in your signing space, simply use your dominant hand to slide the 'Y' shape between their established locations.

How do I sign 'same' if I'm comparing three or more things?

If you are comparing multiple items, you can move the 'Y' handshape in a continuous, sweeping horizontal circle around the group of items, rather than just a straight back-and-forth line between two points.

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