CL-B(flat) is a special tool we use in sign language to show flat surfaces as well as the parameters and outlines of inanimate objects.

– Smooth, flat surfaces: When we want to show things that are smooth and flat, like a road, a wall, a ceiling, or a shelf, we use CL-B(flat). It helps us show how these surfaces look and feel.

– Flat mobile surfaces: CL-B(flat) can also describe things that are flat and can move, like a surfboard, a skateboard, or a people mover at the airport. It helps us show that these things can slide or glide along a surface.

– Inanimate objects in specified locations: If we’re talking about things that are in specific places, like pictures on a wall, books on a table, or a racecar on a road, we use CL-B(flat). It helps us show exactly where these objects are located.

– Inanimate objects in specified positions: CL-B(flat) can also show how things are positioned, like books standing upright on a shelf or papers facing down. It helps us describe how things are arranged.

– Height and width: When we want to talk about how tall or wide something is, like a person’s height or the width of a box, we use CL-B(flat). It helps us show the dimensions of different objects.

– Delineating 3-dimensional objects: CL-B(flat) helps us describe 3-dimensional objects, like a house or a box. It helps us outline their shape and structure.

– Non-motorized riding device: If we’re talking about things you can ride that don’t have a motor, like a horse or a bicycle, we use CL-B(flat). It helps us show their flat and rideable surfaces.

So, CL-B(flat) is a special way we can talk about shapes, surfaces, and positions in sign language. 

Classifier B-Curved [CL-B(Curved)]

CL-B(curved) is like a special tool we use in sign language to talk about different things and their shapes. Let’s see how we can use it:

– Curved objects: When we want to talk about things that have a curved shape, like a bowl, a sink, or a digging device, we use CL-B(curved). It helps us show the rounded or curved parts of these objects.

So, CL-B(curved) is a special way we can talk about shapes in sign language. 

Classifier B [CL-B(Bent)]

CL-B(bent) is like a special tool we use in sign language to talk about different things and their shapes. Let’s see how we can use it:

– Smooth, flat surfaces: When we want to talk about things that are long and flat, like a stretch of desert or a road, we use CL-B(bent). It helps us show how these surfaces extend smoothly and evenly.

– Describing objects with sharp corners: CL-B(bent) can also describe objects that have sharp corners, like the top of a shelf or a refrigerator. It helps us show the straight edges and corners of these objects.

– A trailer (pulled behind a truck): If we’re talking about a trailer that is pulled behind a truck, we can use CL-B(bent) to describe its shape. It helps us show the way the trailer curves and bends behind the truck.

– Amounts: CL-B(bent) can also be used to talk about amounts, like less of something. It helps us show a decrease or a smaller quantity of something.

So, CL-B(bent) is a special way we can talk about shapes and amounts in sign language.

CL-C helps us show the size and shape of inanimate objects, as well as their locations in comparison with each other. 

– Long cylindrical objects: When we want to show things that are long and shaped like a cylinder, such as a pipe, a cave, a tunnel, or a pole, we use CL-C. It helps us show the long and straight shape of these objects.

– Short cylindrical objects: CL-C can also describe things that are short and shaped like a cylinder, like a cup or a bottle. It helps us show the round and short shape of these objects.

– Thick objects and depth: CL-C can help us describe things that are thick or have depth, like a book, a pizza, or a stack of papers. It helps us show how thick or deep these objects are.

So, CL-C is a special way we can talk about shapes and sizes in sign language.

Classifier C(Claw) [CL-C(Claw)]

When we use CL-C with a claw handshape in sign language, it helps us talk about different things and how they are arranged. Let’s explore how we can use it:

– Clusters of objects in a specified location: CL-C with a claw handshape helps us show a bunch of things grouped together in one place. For example, we can use it to talk about a group of students sitting in the back of the classroom or a bunch of flowers arranged in a bouquet.

– Sections: We can also use CL-C to talk about different sections or parts of things. For instance, we can use it to describe the rooms in a house, the different areas of a city, or the sections of a newspaper.

– Large objects in a specified location: CL-C can help us describe big things placed in specific spots. Like a house sitting out in the countryside or a camper parked on the back of a truck.

– Medium, round, squat objects: When things are medium-sized, round, and kind of short, like a cookie, a badge, or a small cap, CL-C with a claw handshape can show their shape and size.

– Small spherical objects (with fingers closer together): We can use CL-C to talk about small, round things like a clown’s nose or bulging eyes. The claw handshape helps us show how small and round they are.

– Large spherical objects (two hands): If something is really big and round, like a ball, we can use CL-C with both hands to show its size and shape.

– Teeth: CL-C with a claw handshape can also help us describe teeth. We can use it to show teeth bared in anger or a full set of teeth in a smile.

So, CL-C(claw) handshape is like a special tool we use in sign language to talk about different things and how they look or where they are.

Classifier C with Index and Thumb [CL-C(IxT)]

When we use CL-C with the index finger and thumb in sign language, we can talk about different things and how they look or how we hold them. Let’s see how we can use it:

– Small round flat objects: CL-C(ixt) helps us describe things that are small, round, and flat. For example, we can use it to talk about a disc, a piece of food, or even the moon in the sky when it looks small and round.

– Height and/or width of small objects: Just like CL-G, CL-C(ixt) helps us show the size of small things. We can use it to talk about the height or width of objects like a small bottle of perfume, a short pencil, or a long screw or nail.

– Pincers, curved beaks: When we want to describe things that look like pincers or have curved beaks, CL-C(ixt) helps us show their shape.

– Used to show the holding of small objects between the thumb and index finger: We use CL-C(ixt) to show how we hold small objects, like picking up a piece of food or holding onto a small item.

So, CL-C(ixt) is a special way we use in sign language to talk about small things, their size, shape, and how we hold them. 

Classifier C with Flat Handshape [CL-C(Flat)]

When we use CL-C with a flat handshape in sign language, CL-C(flat) we can talk about different things and how they are handled or where they are. Let’s learn more about it:

– Handling or location of a book: CL-C(flat) helps us show how we handle a book or where it is placed. We can use it to talk about picking up a book, putting it on a shelf, or even showing where it is in a story.

– Indication of volume: Sometimes, we use CL-C(flat) to talk about how much of something there is. For example, we might use it to show that something is flat, like a pancake, or to indicate that something is on sale or at a discount.

– Shape of the mouth: CL-C(flat) can also help us describe how someone’s mouth looks. We can use it to show smiles or frowns, helping us express feelings or emotions.

– Derogatory portrayal of talking: Sometimes, CL-C(flat) is used to show a negative or disrespectful way of talking. It helps us express when someone is talking in a way that is not kind or polite.

So, CL-C(flat) is a special way we use in sign language to talk about handling things, indicating volume, showing facial expressions, and even portraying how people talk.

Let’s explore how we use Classifier F (CL-F) in sign language to help describe different things and actions:

– Handling small, thin, round objects: When we use CL-F, it helps us talk about objects like buttons, coins, or even small dots. It shows how we hold or move these things. For example, we can use CL-F to demonstrate picking up a coin or placing a button on a shirt.

– Describing long, thin, cylindrical objects: CL-F is also used for things like sticks, curtain rods, or even a roll of paper. It helps us show the shape and movement of these objects. We can use CL-F to sign about holding a stick or pulling on a hose.

– Showing eye gaze and movement: CL-F can represent how someone’s eyes move. We use it to describe a person looking up or down, or even rolling their eyes. This helps us express emotions or actions related to vision.

– Portraying a person’s movement: When we use CL-F, we can also talk about how someone is moving. It could be walking, hiking, or just wandering around. CL-F helps us show the action of someone walking or moving in different directions.

– Depicting small round holes or openings: Sometimes, CL-F is used to represent tiny openings or holes. It helps us describe things like the opening of a keyhole or the hole in a donut.

– Manipulating or holding thin or small objects: CL-F is handy for showing how we handle thin items like dental floss, threading a needle, or even turning a page in a book. It helps us demonstrate these actions clearly.

So, Classifier F (CL-F) in sign language is a versatile tool that helps us describe various objects, actions, and movements.

Classifier F (Open) [CL-F(Open)]

Let’s learn about Classifier F (Open) in sign language, which can be helpful for describing certain objects:

– Looks like an “F” handshape with the index and thumb separated: When we use Classifier F (Open), our hand looks like the letter “F” but with the index finger and thumb apart.

– Useful for small, round, flat things: CL-F(open) is great for describing objects that are small, round, and flat. For example, we can use it to talk about a cookie or a gold coin, like the ones pirates used to find!

So, when we use CL-F(open), we’re able to show how we hold or talk about these specific types of objects.

Let’s explore how Classifier G works in sign language and how it helps us describe things:

– Indicates small sizes, shapes, or amounts: When we use CL-G, we’re showing that something is small, like the size of a tiny toy or a little piece of candy.

– Shows holding and manipulation of small things: CL-G helps us talk about holding and playing with small objects, such as earphones, USB thumb drives, or even tiny droppers for medicine.

– Describes short or shallow depths: It’s like showing a thin layer of ice on a pond or shallow water in a puddle.

– Depicts flat and thin objects with squared edges: Imagine a picture frame or a ruler – things that are thin and flat with straight edges.

– Represents thin shapes, like a mustache or collar: CL-G can show the shape of small things, like a bird’s beak or the end of a tweezers.

– Shows movements, like blinking or squinting: When we use CL-G, we can show how our eyelids move, like when we blink or wake up in the morning.

– Demonstrates things going away or coming closer: CL-G helps us show things disappearing into the distance or suddenly appearing closer by changing the shape of our hand.

Let’s learn about Classifier U in sign language and how it helps us describe things:

– Represents thin flat objects: When we use Classifier U, we’re showing things that are thin and flat, like a knife, bacon strips, or even some types of noodles.

– Shows spreading actions: Classifier U helps us describe actions like spreading butter or frosting on bread or cake.

– Depicts boards or flat surfaces: Imagine railroad ties or wooden beams used in construction – things that are long and flat.

– Similar to Classifier V but with legs together: Classifier U can be similar to Classifier V, but it’s used when someone is standing with their legs together, like standing on a sidewalk or even someone on a surfboard.

So, Classifier U is like a special handshape that helps us talk about thin flat objects, spreading things, and even flat surfaces like boards or beams!

Let’s learn about Classifier H in sign language and how it helps us describe things:

– Handshape similar to the letter “H”: Classifier H uses a handshape similar to the letter “H” in the alphabet. Sometimes, the thumb is slightly separated from the fingers and then closes onto them, like making a clamping or attaching movement.

– Fastening small objects: Classifier H helps us describe actions like fastening small objects to something else, such as badges, clip-on earrings, hair barrettes, or even paper clips. It’s like showing how these things are attached or clipped onto something.

– Placement of electrodes: Classifier H can also show us how electrodes are placed onto the skin. It’s like demonstrating how something is attached or connected.

– Tongue movements: In some variations, Classifier H can represent tongue movements. It helps us describe how the tongue moves or is positioned.

So, Classifier H is like a special handshape that helps us talk about attaching things, placing electrodes, and even describing tongue movements!

Classifier H [CL-H(Open)]

Let’s explore how Classifier H (Open) is used in sign language to describe things:

– Handshape like the letter “H” with the thumb sticking out: CL-H(open) uses a handshape similar to the letter “H” in the alphabet, but with the thumb sticking out to the side.

– Medium or small paintbrushes and painting: We use CL-H(open) to talk about medium or small paintbrushes and the action of painting. It’s like showing how we hold and use a paintbrush to create art.

– Depicting a tongue: In some cases, CL-H(open) can represent a tongue. For example, it can show a dog licking a person’s face. It helps us describe how the tongue is positioned or moving.

So, Classifier H (Open) is like a special handshape that helps us talk about paintbrushes, painting, and even tongue movements, like when a dog licks someone’s face!

Let’s discover how Classifier I is used in sign language to describe different things:

– Handshape resembling the letter “I”: CL-I uses a handshape that looks like the letter “I” in the alphabet.

– Representation of very thin and long objects: CL-I is perfect for describing objects that are very thin and long, like string, yarn, wire, thread, cherry stems, or those thin and stringy noodles we love to eat!

– Depiction of boundary lines and perimeters: It also helps in showing boundary lines or perimeters, like outlining the edges of a shape or defining the borders of a space.

– Small or very small paintbrushes: CL-I can even represent small or very small paintbrushes, helping us talk about art tools used for detailed painting.

So, Classifier I is like a special handshape that helps us describe thin and long things, draw boundary lines, and even talk about tiny paintbrushes!

Classifier Horns (CL-Horns)

Let’s explore how the ASL Classifier Horns helps us describe different things:

– Representation of animals with two horns: CL-Horns is used to describe animals like bulls, oxen, and cows, which have two horns on their heads.

– Depiction of pronged items: It also helps show items with prongs, like goal posts on a sports field, a pitchfork used in farming, a forklift at work, or even the starting gun at the beginning of a race.

– Description of objects with sharp borders and open sides: CL-Horns can represent objects like tents, canopies, circuses, castles, or carports, which have sharp edges for roofs and open or loose sides.

– Representation of two long, skinny objects spaced apart: It’s also used for showing two long, skinny objects that are spaced apart, like the splits in bowling.

So, Classifier Horns is like a special way in sign language to talk about animals with two horns, pronged items, objects with sharp borders, and even splits in bowling!

Let’s discover how the ASL Classifier ILY helps us describe different things:

– Representation of different types of airplanes: CL-ILY can represent various types of airplanes. By making slight finger modifications, the sign for airplane can change to show a supersonic jet (CL-RY) or even a space ship (CL-XY).

– Depiction of movement: It’s also used to show the movement of airplanes, such as landing on a runway, taking off into the sky, skidding on a runway, or even crashing in midair.

So, Classifier ILY is like a special way in sign language to talk about different types of airplanes and their movements, from regular planes to supersonic jets and even spaceships

!

Let’s explore how the ASL Classifier L helps us describe different things:

– Representation of thin squared objects: CL-L is used to show thin squared objects like placemats, driver’s licenses, or greeting cards.

– Depiction of thin squared objects in a specific location or position: It’s also used to describe where these objects are placed or how they are positioned. For example, pictures on a wall, a mirror, or a window frame.

– Objects with a short barrel: Additionally, CL-L can represent objects with a short barrel, such as a drill, welding device, gun (pistol), or a laser.

So, Classifier L is like a special way in sign language to talk about thin squared objects and items with short barrels, helping us describe their shape, location, and use!

Classifier L (Curved) [CL-L(Curved)]

Let’s learn about ASL Classifier L when it’s used to describe curved things:

– Circular or oval-shaped objects: CL-L(curved) shows things like dishes, rugs, or platters that are round or oval. It helps describe their shape.

– Thin round surfaces: This classifier is also used for things that are round and flat, like lakes, round tables, or even a paint spill. It helps us talk about things with a circular shape.

– Spraying devices: When we want to talk about things that spray, like window cleaner or a water gun, we use CL-L(curved). We wiggle our index finger to show the spraying action.

So, CL-L(curved) helps us describe curved things and objects that are round or oval in shape, as well as things that spray!

Let’s explore ASL Classifier O, which helps describe certain objects:

– Thick, medium-sized cylindrical objects: CL-O is used for things like rods, tree branches, pipes, or large cables. These are objects that are thick and cylindrical in shape.

– Viewing devices: It’s also used for objects like goggles, a telescope, or binoculars. These are devices we use to see things from a distance.

So, CL-O helps us describe thick, cylindrical objects and certain viewing devices!

Classifier O (Flat) [CL-O(Flat)]

Let’s explore ASL Classifier O (Flat), which helps describe various things:

– Being flat: This classifier represents the state of something being flat, like a piece of paper or a pancake.

– Completing an action: It can also show actions like drinking a bottle empty or finishing reading a book. It helps describe when something is used up or finished.

– Small squat objects with rounded ends: CL-O(flat) is used for objects like a very fast race car, which are low and wide.

– Objects with a rounded bottom and a slight opening at the top: It can represent items like tulips or closed flower buds, which have a rounded shape at the bottom and a small opening at the top.

– Animals with long necks: CL-O(flat) can describe animals like giraffes, llamas, or swans, which have long necks.

– Thick claws: With a slight modification, it can also represent animals like lobsters with thick claws.

– Shutting up: This classifier can even describe actions like shutting up or not talking.

So, Classifier O (Flat) helps describe a wide range of things, from flat objects to completed actions and even animals with certain characteristics.

Let’s explore ASL Classifier R, which helps describe certain objects:

– Braided or twisted material: When we use CL-R, we’re referring to things like ropes, cables, braids, or even strands of hair or ribbon that are twisted or braided together.

– Short, round, somewhat thick with narrowed tips: CL-R also helps describe objects such as cigars. These are short, round, somewhat thick, and have tips that are narrowed.

So, when we use Classifier R, we’re talking about items that are either braided or twisted, like ropes or braids, as well as short, round objects with narrowed tips, such as cigars.

Let’s learn about ASL Classifier S, which helps describe various objects:

– Solid, spherical objects: When we use CL-S, we’re talking about things that are solid and round, like the head of a person or animal. It also helps describe movements, such as when a head nods or retreats, like a turtle pulling its head into its shell.

– Ramming device and Cranking handle: CL-S can also represent objects used for pushing or jamming, such as the pistons in a car engine or a clenched fist. It can also describe objects used for turning or cranking, like a window crank or the handle of an old-fashioned ice cream machine.

– Long, thin, round hand-held objects: Additionally, CL-S is used for objects that are long, thin, and round that we can hold in our hands, such as a spear, a large stirring spoon, or the handle of a rake.

So, when we use Classifier S, we’re describing solid, round objects like heads, items used for pushing or turning, and long, thin objects that we hold in our hands.

Let’s explore ASL Classifier V, which helps describe various objects and movements:

– People (or legs of people): When we use CL-V, we’re talking about people’s legs. We can show actions like lying down, standing up, having legs together, or kicking.

– Two long thin things, parallel to one another: CL-V can also represent objects that are long and thin, like train tracks. It helps us show things that are parallel or side by side.

– Two-pronged device: This classifier helps describe objects with two prongs, such as a fork or a forklift.

– Groups of 2: CL-V is also used to represent pairs or groups of two. For example, it can show two people walking together or standing side by side.

– Scissoring object: Finally, CL-V is used for objects or actions that involve a scissoring motion, like scissors or the claws of a crab or lobster.

So, when we use Classifier V, we’re describing people’s legs, objects that are long and parallel, two-pronged devices, pairs or groups of two, and actions involving a scissoring motion.

Classifier V (Bent) [CL-V(Bent)]

Let’s dive into ASL Classifier V (Bent), which helps describe various actions, objects, and arrangements:

– Seated (person or animal): When we use CL-V(bent), we’re showing someone or something that’s seated or crouching down. It could be a person sitting, an animal squatting, or someone hunched down.

– Bending knees: This classifier helps us describe actions like climbing stairs or mountains, jumping, sitting, or even mimicking the motion of galloping with both hands.

– Arrangement of chairs: CL-V(bent) can also represent how chairs are arranged. For example, chairs in a semi-circle, a circle, or multiple rows.

– Thin pulling object: When we use this classifier, we’re talking about thin objects being pulled, like a bowstring or a wire pulled to signal the bus to stop.

– Sliding device: It’s also used for objects that slide, such as a sled or roller skates.

– Raking device: CL-V(bent) can represent the motion of a raking device, like parallel scratch marks or paint streaks.

– Sets of teeth: This classifier can show sets of teeth, like chattering teeth.

– Head of an animal with floppy ears: It’s used for animals with floppy ears, like a rabbit.

– Two-pronged teeth: CL-V(bent) can also describe the teeth of certain animals, like a snake, vampire, squirrel, or chipmunk.

– Long objects with a connective ending: Finally, it’s used for objects that are long with a connective ending, such as bones or joints.

So, when we use Classifier V (Bent), we’re describing seated positions, bending knees, arrangements of chairs, pulling thin objects, sliding devices, raking motions, sets of teeth, animal heads with floppy ears, two-pronged teeth, and long objects with a connective ending.

Let’s explore ASL Classifier X, which helps describe various actions, objects, and movements:

– Crouched or hunched person or animal: When we use CL-X, we’re showing someone or something that is crouched or hunched over. This could be a person skulking, slinking, shrinking, or slouching.

– Scratching or digging device:CL-X can represent devices used for scratching or digging, like a scratch or scar, or a digging tool such as a pickaxe or mining tool.

– Anything with a hook: It’s also used for objects that have a hook-like shape, such as a boat anchor, door latch, fishing hook, talons, a tow, a bat (the animal), a beaked nose, a scorpion’s tail, or clothes hangers.

– Long curved sliding device: CL-X can describe long, curved objects used for sliding, like ice skates or skis.

– Movement of bent legs: This classifier helps describe movements involving bent legs, such as running furiously, sitting cross-legged, relaxing with legs kicked back, or a bull pawing at the ground before charging.

– Movement of a convertible car’s top: It’s also used to describe the movement of a convertible car’s top.

So, when we use Classifier X, we’re describing crouched or hunched positions, scratching or digging actions, objects with hook-like shapes, long curved sliding devices, movements involving bent legs, and the movement of a convertible car’s top.

Classifier X (Cocked) [CL-X(Cocked)]

Let’s discover ASL Classifier X (Cocked), which helps describe various actions and objects:

– A plant ready to sprout: When we use CL-X(cocked), we’re showing a plant that’s just about to sprout, like a seed ready to grow into a plant.

– Small bulbous objects: It’s also used for small, rounded objects like onions or garlic, representing their shape and size.

– A snake or frog tongue just before flicking outward: CL-X(cocked) can describe the moment just before a snake or frog flicks its tongue outward from its mouth, showing that coiled-up position.

– A piece of popcorn prior to popping: It’s used to depict a single piece of popcorn just before it pops, capturing that moment of tension before the kernel bursts open.

– The beginning handshape used in spitting or spewing of small amounts of liquid: CL-X(cocked) also represents the initial handshape used in ASL signs for spitting or spewing small amounts of liquid, suggesting that gathered or coiled-up position before the action.

So, when we use Classifier X (Cocked), we’re describing things like plants ready to sprout, small bulbous objects, the coiled position of a snake or frog tongue, popcorn kernels before popping, and the initial handshape for spitting or spewing small amounts of liquid.

Classifier X (Modified) [CL-X(Modified)]

Let’s explore ASL Classifier X (Modified), which helps describe specific actions and objects:

– Small objects commonly held between fingers: When we use CL-X(modified), we’re showing small objects that are typically held between the fingers, like a key or a winding device. It represents the way these objects are grasped or manipulated with the fingers.

Classifier X (Closed) [CL-X(Closed)]

Let’s talk about ASL CL-X(closed), which is used to show how we hold and handle extremely small, fine, or thin objects like needles or razor blades. It helps us demonstrate how we use our fingers to manage these tiny items safely.

Let’s explore ASL Classifier Y, which helps us describe wide or long objects and things with handles in sign language. For example, we can use it to show the wide mouth of a hippopotamus or the long shape of high heels. It’s also handy for indicating objects like beer mugs or pitchers with handles. Classifier Y can even represent the curved shape of things like cow horns or smoking pipes. It’s a versatile tool for showing size, shape, and how we interact with different objects.

This one helps us talk about hair. We show long hair with this handshape.

Have you seen freckles? This handshape helps us show those tiny spots on the skin.

When something has stripes, we use this handshape to show them.

This one helps us talk about thin things. It’s like showing something skinny with our hands.

To talk about curly hair, we use this handshape. It’s like showing the curls with our fingers.

Sometimes we want to show someone walking with a waddle. This handshape helps us do that.

If we have two sticks in different places, we can use this handshape to show each stick and where they are.

Have you ever adjusted a picture on the wall? We use this handshape to show moving the picture.

Sometimes there are lots of things all together. We use this handshape to show a whole bunch of them.