How to Sign "Somebody"
Form a '1' handshape with your dominant hand, pointing your index finger straight up. Hold your hand in front of your chest with your palm facing toward you. Move your hand in a small, continuous circular motion.
Examples Using "Somebody" in a Sentence
1
Somebody is at the door.
Sign 'somebody' using the small circular motion with your index finger, followed by pointing toward the door.
2
I need somebody to help me.
Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', then sign 'somebody', and finish with the sign for 'help' moving toward yourself.
3
Did somebody call my name?
Sign 'somebody', then 'call', and finally 'my name' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
How to Sign "Somebody"
Form a '1' handshape with your dominant hand, pointing your index finger straight up. Hold your hand in front of your chest with your palm facing toward you. Move your hand in a small, continuous circular motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The '1' handshape visually represents a single individual. The vague, circular motion suggests that this individual is unspecified or unknown, perfectly capturing the concept of 'somebody' or 'someone.'
Signing Tips
Keep the circular motion small and controlled, about the size of a baseball. Make sure the movement comes from your elbow and wrist rather than your whole arm.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the circular motion too large or erratic. Another frequent error is having the palm face outward instead of inward toward your body.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Somebody" in a Sentence
1Somebody is at the door.
Sign 'somebody' using the small circular motion with your index finger, followed by pointing toward the door.
2I need somebody to help me.
Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', then sign 'somebody', and finish with the sign for 'help' moving toward yourself.
3Did somebody call my name?
Sign 'somebody', then 'call', and finally 'my name' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'somebody' the same as 'someone'?
Yes! In ASL, the concepts of 'somebody' and 'someone' are identical, so you use the exact same sign for both English words.
Is this sign related to the sign for 'something'?
Yes, they are very closely related. In fact, many signers use the exact same sign (the '1' handshape moving in a small circle) for 'somebody,' 'someone,' and 'something.' Context usually makes the meaning clear.
Does it matter which way the circle goes?
Most signers move their hand in a small, continuous circle. As long as the circle is small and controlled in front of your chest, the exact direction won't prevent you from being understood.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!