Friendly in Sign Language (ASL)

ASL Dictionary 3 min read

How to sign Friendly in ASL
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The sign for “friendly” conveys warmth and approachability, making it a great way to describe someone’s character or to greet others in a positive manner. It is often used in casual conversations to express a friendly demeanor or to describe a pleasant atmosphere.

Last reviewed: March 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the sign ‘friendly’ in sentences?

You can incorporate the sign ‘friendly’ in sentences like, ‘She is friendly to everyone’ by using the sign after mentioning the person. For example, you might sign ‘She friendly’ while maintaining appropriate facial expressions to convey the overall tone.

Are there regional variations of the sign ‘friendly’?

Yes, regional variations can exist in ASL, and the sign may look slightly different depending on where you are in the U.S. or Canada. It’s always a good idea to observe native signers in your area to learn the nuances and variations of signs.

Is there a difference between formal and informal usage of the sign ‘friendly’?

The sign ‘friendly’ can be used in both formal and informal settings, but in formal contexts, you might want to pair it with more formal body language and facial expressions. In casual conversations, a relaxed demeanor can enhance the friendliness of the sign.

What are some similar or easily confused signs with ‘friendly’?

The sign for ‘friendly’ can be confused with signs for ‘nice’ or ‘kind,’ as they share similar handshapes and movements. Pay close attention to facial expressions and context to distinguish between these signs effectively.

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

In BSL, the sign for ‘friendly’ is different and may not resemble the ASL sign. Familiarizing yourself with both sign languages can enhance your understanding of the cultural nuances in the Deaf communities across regions.

What are some teaching tips for the sign ‘friendly’?

When teaching the sign ‘friendly,’ emphasize the importance of facial expressions to convey warmth and kindness. Encourage students to practice with peers in conversational contexts, as using the sign in context helps reinforce learning and understanding.

Table of Contents

Sign at a Glance

Type Adjective
Sign Type Symmetricaloralternating
Location Head
Handshape open_b
Movement Straight
Iconicity Moderately Iconic (4.63/7) — NA
Frequency Moderate (3.933/7)
Semantic Category Attribute
ASL Signbank View sign video →

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

How to Sign “Friendly”

  1. Begin with your dominant hand in an open “B” handshape (fingers spread out with the palm facing away from your body).
  2. Position your hand near your forehead, with your palm facing outward.
  3. Gently move your hand away from your forehead in a straight motion, while keeping your fingers spread.
  4. While performing the sign, maintain a friendly facial expression, such as a smile, to reinforce the meaning of the sign.

Common Mistakes

  • Some learners may forget to keep their hand in the correct “B” handshape, which can alter the sign’s meaning.
  • Not using an appropriate facial expression can lead to misunderstandings; expressions are crucial in ASL for conveying emotions.
  • Moving the hand too quickly or erratically can make the sign unclear; smooth, controlled movements are essential.
  • A – The letter A in ASL, used in spelling names or words.
  • A Little Bit – Indicates a small amount or degree of something.
  • 1 Dollar – Represents one dollar, useful in financial conversations.
  • 5 Dollars – A sign for five dollars, commonly used in transactions.
  • 9 – The number nine, which can be used in various contexts.

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