Learning how to say “more” in sign language opens a window into the vibrant world of deaf communication. Picture a child at a family gathering, hands eagerly signing “more” to ask for extra ice cream, their eyes bright with hope. This simple gesture carries a universal longing—whether for food, love, or connection—yet it varies across sign languages and cultures.
From the expressive hands of American Sign Language (ASL) users in New York to the graceful motions of Japanese Sign Language (JSL) in Tokyo, each sign reflects a shared human desire, shaped by unique traditions. Let’s explore how this gesture is expressed globally and what it reveals about deaf communities.
Reference Table: Signing “More” in Different Sign Languages
| Sign Language | Sign Description | Cultural/Linguistic Insight |
|---|---|---|
| American Sign Language (ASL) | Both hands in “A” shape, fingers crossed, near chest, moving up slightly. | Conveys eagerness, popular among kids. |
| British Sign Language (BSL) | Flat hand near mouth, fingers up, moving outward. | Tied to dining culture, mimics asking for food. |
| French Sign Language (LSF) | Both hands in “C” shape near chin, moving outward. | Polite, aligns with French social norms. |
| German Sign Language (DGS) | One hand in “B” shape near mouth, moving forward. | Direct, reflects German clarity. |
| Chinese Sign Language (CSL) | Both hands in “5” shape near chest, moving upward. | Suggests abundance, tied to prosperity. |
| Indian Sign Language (ISL) | One hand in “A” shape near chin, tapping twice. | Compact, mirrors India’s lively communication. |
| Japanese Sign Language (JSL) | Both hands in “C” shape near chest, moving forward. | Subtle, aligns with Japan’s reserved nature. |
| Korean Sign Language (KSL) | One hand in “B” shape near mouth, moving outward. | Polite, reflects Korean respect. |
| Arabic Sign Language (ArSL) | Both hands in “A” shape near chest, moving upward. | Used in 20+ countries, tied to sharing. |
| Kenyan Sign Language (KSL) | Flat hand near mouth, moving forward. | Linked to communal meals, oral traditions. |
| South African Sign Language (SASL) | Both hands in “B” shape near chest, moving outward. | Warm, reflects South Africa’s diversity. |
| Nigerian Sign Language (NSL) | One hand in “C” shape near chin, moving forward. | Vibrant, tied to Nigeria’s social culture. |
| Maori Sign Language (NZSL) | Both hands in flat shape near chest, moving upward. | Communal, used in New Zealand gatherings. |
| Hawaiian Sign Language (HSL) | One hand in “A” shape near mouth, moving forward. | Embodies aloha, conveys warmth. |
| Cherokee Sign Language | Both hands in open shape near chest, pushing forward. | Emphasizes sharing, Native American roots. |
European Sign Languages: Signing “More” with Elegance
European sign languages express “more” with gestures that blend clarity and courtesy. For instance, in British Sign Language (BSL), a flat hand near the mouth moves outward, mimicking a request for more food, rooted in dining etiquette. To learn BSL basics, visit SignBSL. Meanwhile, French Sign Language (LSF) uses both hands in a “C” shape near the chin, moving outward, a polite gesture aligned with France’s refined norms. Additionally, German Sign Language (DGS) employs a single “B” handshape near the mouth, moving forward, reflecting Germany’s straightforward style. These signs, used in countries like the UK and France, balance practicality and cultural nuance, making requests clear yet courteous.
Asian Sign Languages: Gestures of Harmony
East Asian Signs
Asia’s sign languages convey “more” with gestures tied to harmony and respect. For example, in Chinese Sign Language (CSL), both hands in a “5” shape move upward near the chest, suggesting abundance, a value tied to prosperity. Explore CSL at China Disabled People’s Federation. In Japanese Sign Language (JSL), both hands in a “C” shape move forward subtly, reflecting Japan’s reserved culture. Similarly, Korean Sign Language (KSL) uses a “B” handshape near the mouth, moving outward, emphasizing politeness.
South and West Asian Signs
In Indian Sign Language (ISL), the sign involves tapping an “A” handshape near the chin, a concise gesture mirroring India’s vibrant communication. For ISL resources, check Indian Sign Language Dictionary. Meanwhile, Arabic Sign Language (ArSL), used across over 20 countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia, involves both hands in an “A” shape moving upward, symbolizing communal sharing. These gestures showcase Asia’s diversity, from subtle Japanese signs to expressive Indian motions.
African Sign Languages: Signing “More” in Community
African sign languages express “more” with warmth and community focus. For instance, Kenyan Sign Language (KSL), used in Kenya and nearby countries, involves a flat hand near the mouth moving forward, tied to communal meals. Learn more at Kenya Sign Language Interpreters Association. In South African Sign Language (SASL), both hands in a “B” shape near the chest move outward, reflecting the country’s inclusive spirit. Similarly, Nigerian Sign Language (NSL) uses a “C” handshape near the chin, emphasizing lively social interactions. These signs, used across over 20 African countries, foster connection in group settings.
Indigenous & Island Sign Languages: Simple Gestures of Unity
Indigenous and island sign languages sign “more” with simplicity and community. For example, Maori Sign Language (NZSL) in New Zealand uses both hands in a flat shape moving upward, reflecting communal values. Explore NZSL at New Zealand Sign Language Week. In Hawaiian Sign Language (HSL), an “A” handshape near the mouth moves forward, embodying the aloha spirit. Similarly, Cherokee Sign Language uses both hands in an open shape pushing forward, emphasizing sharing. In Samoan Sign Language, open-handed gestures convey agreement, used in Pacific gatherings. These signs, from New Zealand to the Cherokee Nation, highlight unity and abundance.
Cultural Insights: How “More” Evolved in Sign Language
The gesture for “more” has evolved with deaf communities’ histories. In American Sign Language (ASL), the crossed-finger “A” handshape, documented in the 19th century, likely stems from French Sign Language influences via deaf education. For ASL history, visit Gallaudet University. In Arabic Sign Language, the upward “A” handshape reflects Middle Eastern traditions of sharing, seen in historical markets. Moreover, African signs like those in Kenyan Sign Language tie to oral storytelling, where gestures for “more” accompanied requests for more tales. In Asia, signs like Japanese Sign Language’s reflect cultural restraint, evolving from minimalist gestures. These signs carry histories of education and community, uniting deaf and hearing people.
Proverbs and Sayings: Wisdom of Wanting More
- French: “The more we have, the more we want.” Reflects human desire’s endless nature.
- Hindi: “More, and the heart still asks.” Ties desire to emotion.
- Swahili: “More is good, but together is strength.” Emphasizes community.
- Japanese: “More connects hearts.” Highlights emotional bonds.
- Yoruba: “Abundance brings joy, it seeks more.” Links desire to happiness.
FAQs
Why do some signs for “more” look similar?
Shared influences, like French Sign Language on ASL, or regional similarities in Arabic Sign Language, create resemblances.
What’s the oldest sign for “more”?
ASL’s gesture, influenced by French Sign Language in the 19th century, is among the earliest documented.
How do cultures shape the sign for “more”?
Collectivist cultures (e.g., African, Indigenous) emphasize shared abundance, while individualistic cultures (e.g., European) focus on personal requests.
Conclusion
From ASL’s crossed fingers to Kenyan Sign Language’s warm motions, how to say “more” in sign language weaves a global thread of desire and connection. Each gesture, whether JSL’s subtle sign or NZSL’s communal push, reflects cultural values while celebrating our shared longing for more—more joy, more unity, more love. Consequently, these signs show that a simple motion can unite all people. How do you sign “more” in your community? Share your stories below—we’re eager to hear!
