Sign for 1 in ASL
Quick answer: The sign for 1 in ASL is made by holding up the index finger while the other fingers stay closed. It represents the number one.
How to Sign 1 in ASL
To sign 1, hold up your dominant hand with the index finger extended. Keep the thumb and remaining fingers closed. The hand stays still in neutral signing space.
For basic ASL counting, the palm for numbers 1–5 often faces inward toward the signer. In some contexts, such as showing a number to someone, the palm may face outward.
| Dominant Handshape | 1-hand with index finger extended |
|---|---|
| Non-Dominant Handshape | Not used |
| Location | Neutral signing space in front of the body |
| Palm Orientation | Usually palm inward for basic counting; may face outward when showing the number |
| Movement | No movement; hold the number clearly |
| Non-Manual Markers | Neutral expression |
When to Use This Sign
Use 1 when counting, giving quantities, talking about one item, ranking something as number one, or using number signs in time, age, money, or measurements.
- counting objects
- giving a quantity
- talking about one person or thing
- ranking something as number one
- using number incorporation with time or age
One little number does a lot of work in ASL.
Common Mistakes
- Letting the thumb stick out too far
- Confusing the number 1 with the letter D
- Rotating the palm the wrong way for the context
- Bending the index finger instead of keeping it clear
- Moving the hand when the number should stay still
Example Sentences
ASL gloss: I HAVE ONE BOOK
English: I have one book.
ASL gloss: ONE PERSON ARRIVE
English: One person arrived.
ASL gloss: MY DOG ONE
English: I have one dog.
Responses