Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "See You Later"

To sign "see you later," start by forming a "V" handshape with your dominant hand and bring your middle finger close to your eye. Then, in one fluid motion, move your hand forward and slightly down while changing to an "L" handshape, pointing your index finger forward. This smooth gesture combines the signs for "see" and "later" into a single phrase.

Examples Using "See You Later" in a Sentence

1

I have to go to class, see you later!

To sign this natural parting phrase, start by signing 'I', 'must', 'go', and 'class'. Then, finish the sentence with the fluid 'see you later' sign, making sure to smile and make eye contact as you leave.

2

See you later at the party.

Begin with the compound sign for 'see you later', then sign 'party' to let your friend know exactly where you will meet up with them. This is a great, casual way to confirm future plans.

3

Okay, see you later!

Give a friendly nod and sign 'okay' by spelling O-K, followed immediately by 'see you later'. This is the perfect way to casually and warmly end a conversation with a friend or colleague.

How to Sign "See You Later"
To sign "see you later," start by forming a "V" handshape with your dominant hand and bring your middle finger close to your eye. Then, in one fluid motion, move your hand forward and slightly down while changing to an "L" handshape, pointing your index finger forward. This smooth gesture combines the signs for "see" and "later" into a single phrase.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase is a beautiful example of an ASL compound, blending two highly visual and iconic signs into one smooth motion. The first part, 'see,' uses the 'V' handshape near the eyes to literally represent a pair of eyes looking outward at something. The second part, 'later,' uses the 'L' handshape pivoting forward. In ASL, the space in front of the body typically represents the future. By moving the hand forward, the sign visually represents time moving forward into the future, perfectly capturing the meaning of 'later'.
Signing Tips
When signing 'see you later,' focus on keeping the motion fluid and relaxed. Instead of signing 'see' and 'later' as two completely separate, rigid words, let the 'V' handshape naturally transition into the 'L' handshape as your hand moves away from your face. Think of it as a single, continuous gesture rather than two distinct signs. Additionally, remember to pair this sign with a warm, friendly facial expression and a slight nod or smile, which goes a long way in making this casual parting phrase feel natural and polite.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is keeping the two signs ('see' and 'later') too distinct and choppy, which breaks the natural flow of the phrase. Another common error is pointing the 'V' handshape outward away from the face initially, instead of starting with the middle finger near the eye to represent vision. Finally, make sure you don't forget to pivot the 'L' handshape forward at the end of the sign; this forward motion is crucial because it represents the concept of the future or 'later'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "See You Later" in a Sentence
1

I have to go to class, see you later!

To sign this natural parting phrase, start by signing 'I', 'must', 'go', and 'class'. Then, finish the sentence with the fluid 'see you later' sign, making sure to smile and make eye contact as you leave.

2

See you later at the party.

Begin with the compound sign for 'see you later', then sign 'party' to let your friend know exactly where you will meet up with them. This is a great, casual way to confirm future plans.

3

Okay, see you later!

Give a friendly nod and sign 'okay' by spelling O-K, followed immediately by 'see you later'. This is the perfect way to casually and warmly end a conversation with a friend or colleague.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign the word 'you' in 'see you later'?

No, you do not need to add a separate sign for the word 'you'. The ASL phrase is a seamless compound of 'see' and 'later'. Because you are looking directly at the person and directing the sign outward toward them, the 'you' is already naturally implied by the context and the direction of your movement.

Can I use this sign for 'goodbye'?

Absolutely! Just like in spoken English, 'see you later' is a very common, casual, and friendly way to say goodbye in the Deaf community. It is widely used among friends, family members, and colleagues when parting ways, often replacing a formal 'goodbye' or a simple wave.

Should I use my right or left hand?

You should always use your dominant hand for this sign. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to form the 'V' and 'L' shapes near your right eye. If you are left-handed, use your left hand near your left eye. Consistency with your dominant hand helps keep your signing clear.

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