Sign for 5 PM in ASL
Quick answer: The sign for 5 PM in ASL refers to five o’clock in the afternoon or evening. It combines the number 5 with afternoon, evening, or PM time context.
How to Sign 5 PM in ASL
To sign 5 PM, sign the number 5 clearly and include the afternoon, evening, or PM time context. Depending on the situation, PM may be understood from context, fingerspelled as P-M, or clarified with the sign for AFTERNOON or EVENING.
This sign is used when talking about a specific time later in the day, such as meetings, classes, appointments, work schedules, dinner plans, transportation, or daily routines.
| Dominant Handshape | 5-hand with all five fingers extended and spread naturally |
|---|---|
| Non-Dominant Handshape | Usually not required; may be used for time, afternoon, or evening reference depending on variation |
| Location | Neutral signing space in front of the body |
| Palm Orientation | Palm orientation may vary by context; keep the number 5 clear and readable |
| Movement | Sign 5, then clarify PM through context, fingerspelling, or an afternoon/evening time reference |
| Non-Manual Markers | Neutral expression; use raised eyebrows if asking a question |
When to Use This Sign
Use 5 PM when discussing exact times, afternoon or evening routines, appointments, meetings, classes, transportation, dinner plans, or schedules.
- appointments and meetings
- work or class schedules
- dinner plans
- afternoon or evening routines
- transportation schedules
5 PM is that time when the day starts shifting from work mode to evening plans.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 5 PM with 5 AM
- Signing only the number 5 without giving enough time context
- Closing the fingers too much so the 5-hand looks unclear
- Forgetting to clarify afternoon or evening if the context is not obvious
- Signing too quickly when giving an exact time
Example Sentences
ASL gloss: 5 PM WORK FINISH
English: Work finishes at 5 PM.
ASL gloss: 5 PM MEETING START
English: The meeting starts at 5 PM.
ASL gloss: 5 PM I GO-HOME
English: I go home at 5 PM.
Responses