Good in Sign Language (ASL)

ASL Dictionary 3 min read

How to sign Good in ASL
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The sign for “good” in American Sign Language (ASL) expresses satisfaction or approval. It’s commonly used in everyday conversations to indicate that something is positive or well-done. This sign is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from casual chats to more formal discussions.

Last reviewed: March 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the sign ‘good’ in sentences?

You can incorporate the sign ‘good’ into sentences by using it to express approval. For example, if someone asks how your day was, you might sign ‘good’ to indicate that you had a positive experience.

Are there regional variations of the sign ‘good’?

Yes, there are some regional variations of the sign ‘good’ in ASL. While the most common sign involves placing the dominant hand in a ‘G’ shape on the palm of the non-dominant hand, some areas may have slight differences in handshape or movement. It’s beneficial to observe and adapt to the local Deaf community‘s preferences.

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

In general, the sign ‘good’ can be used in both formal and informal contexts without much alteration. However, in a formal setting, you might pair the sign with more context or additional signs to convey your message clearly, while in casual conversation, it can stand alone.

What are some signs that are similar to ‘good’ or easily confused with it?

The sign for ‘good’ can sometimes be confused with ‘great’ or ‘okay.’ The sign for ‘great’ typically involves a more exaggerated movement, while ‘okay’ uses a circular motion with the ‘O’ handshape. Being mindful of the context will help clarify which sign you intend to use.

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

In BSL, the sign for ‘good’ is quite different from ASL. While ASL users place a ‘G’ handshape on a flat palm, BSL often uses a different handshape and movement. Understanding these differences underscores the importance of learning the specific sign language that corresponds to the community you are engaging with.

What are some effective teaching tips for the sign ‘good’?

When teaching the sign ‘good,’ demonstrate it in context by using it in sentences and role-playing scenarios. Encourage students to practice with peers and provide feedback. Additionally, using visual aids or incorporating storytelling can help reinforce the meaning and usage of the sign.

Table of Contents

Sign at a Glance

Type Adjective
Sign Type One-Handed
Location Head
Handshape open_b
Movement Straight
Iconicity Arbitrary (1.63/7) — Arbitrary
Frequency Very Common (6.44/7)
Age of Acquisition Toddler (2-3 years) (~28 months)
Semantic Category Attribute
ASL Signbank View sign video →

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

How to Sign “Good”

  1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” handshape (palm facing up).
  2. Bring your hand to your chin, with your fingers gently touching your chin.
  3. Move your hand outward and slightly away from your chin, while keeping your fingers together and maintaining the flat handshape.
  4. As you perform the movement, maintain a pleasant facial expression to convey positivity.

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting to use a positive facial expression, which is important for conveying the meaning of the sign.
  • Making the handshape too tense or rigid instead of keeping it relaxed.
  • Incorrectly moving the hand too far from the chin, which can lead to confusion with other signs.

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