All Gone in Sign Language (ASL)

ASL Dictionary 3 min read

How to sign All Gone in ASL
Practice sign language with AI coachingTry it free →

The sign for “all gone” is used to express that something is completely finished or no longer available. It’s commonly used in various contexts, such as when food is eaten, a toy is finished being played with, or an event has concluded. This sign helps convey a clear message in everyday conversations.

Last reviewed: March 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the sign ‘all gone’ in sentences?

You can incorporate the sign ‘all gone’ into sentences by using it in context. For example, you could sign ‘The cookies are all gone’ while showing the empty plate to emphasize the point.

Are there regional variations of the sign ‘all gone’?

Yes, there can be slight regional variations in the sign ‘all gone’ across different Deaf communities in the U.S. Some regions may have a unique way of emphasizing the gesture or may incorporate facial expressions differently, so it’s beneficial to observe and learn from local signers.

Is there a difference between formal and informal usage of ‘all gone’?

In both formal and informal contexts, the sign ‘all gone’ conveys the same basic meaning. However, in formal situations, you might pair it with more elaborate descriptions or additional context, while informal situations allow for a more straightforward use of the sign.

What are some signs that are similar to ‘all gone’ or can be easily confused with it?

The signs for ‘finished‘ or ’empty’ can sometimes be confused with ‘all gone’ due to similar gestures. Pay attention to the context and facial expressions used, as they can help clarify the intended meaning.

How does the sign ‘all gone’ compare to BSL (British Sign Language)?

In BSL, the sign for ‘all gone’ is quite different from ASL. While ASL uses a specific handshape and movement, BSL may use a different gesture altogether. It’s always fascinating to explore these differences when learning about various sign languages.

What are some teaching tips for the sign ‘all gone’?

When teaching ‘all gone’, use real-life objects to demonstrate its meaning, such as showing an empty container. Encourage students to use facial expressions and to practice in context, such as during meals or playtime, to reinforce their understanding and retention of the sign.

Table of Contents

Sign at a Glance

Type Adverb
Sign Type One-Handed
Location Head
Handshape open_b
Movement Curved
Iconicity Arbitrary (2.739/7) — Arbitrary
Frequency Common (4.69/7)
Semantic Category Attribute
ASL Signbank View sign video →

Data: ASL-LEX 2.0 · ASL Signbank (Caselli et al., 2017)

How to Sign “All Gone”

  1. Start with both hands open in front of you, palms facing each other.
  2. Bring your hands together, closing them into a fist as you move them slightly apart. This motion symbolizes the idea of emptying or finishing.
  3. As you perform this motion, use an expressive facial expression that reflects the concept of something being completely gone or finished.

Common Mistakes

  • Some learners may forget to use facial expressions, which are crucial in ASL for conveying emotions and context.
  • A common mistake is not fully closing the hands before moving them apart, which can lead to confusion about the meaning of the sign.
  • Inconsistent hand positioning can make the sign unclear; ensuring both hands are at the same level is essential for clarity.
  • All Done – This sign indicates that a task or activity has been completed.
  • 9 – A numeral sign that can come in handy during counting.
  • Again – Used to express the desire to repeat something.
  • Abc – Represents the alphabet and can help in spelling and language learning.
  • Airplane – A sign to indicate an airplane, useful in travel discussions.

Practice ASL Signs

Use your camera to practice signs and get real-time AI feedback on your technique.

Start Practicing →

Free · No signup required