How to Sign More in Sign Language
Learn how to sign 'more' in ASL. Make flattened-O shapes with both hands, then tap your fingertips together a couple of times. Step-by-step baby sign guide.
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Quick answer
To sign 'more' in ASL, bring all the fingertips of each hand together into flattened-O shapes (like two tight pinches), then tap the fingertips of both hands together two or three times in front of your chest. It is one of the most popular first signs for babies.
How to Sign More in Sign Language
“More” is one of the most beloved signs in American Sign Language (ASL), especially in baby sign language, because it gives a child a simple, powerful way to ask for additional food, play, or attention. To make it, bring all the fingertips of each hand together into flattened-O shapes — like two tight pinches or the tips of two closed flowers — and then tap the fingertips of both hands together two or three times in front of your chest.
The handshapes meet in the middle, symbolizing “adding to” what you already have. It is intuitive, easy to recognize, and motivating for young children.
Step-by-Step: Signing More
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Handshape | On each hand, draw the fingers and thumb together to a point (flattened-O). |
| 2. Palm orientation | Angle the fingertips of each hand toward each other. |
| 3. Location | Hold both hands in front of your chest, hands a few inches apart. |
| 4. Movement | Bring the hands together so the fingertips tap. |
| 5. Repetition | Tap two or three times to clearly signal “more.” |
Keep the tapping light and rhythmic. Two clean taps are usually enough to be understood.
Why “More” Is a Top Baby Sign
“More” consistently ranks among the first signs families teach, alongside “milk,” “eat,” and “all done.” It works because the reward is immediate and meaningful to a child.
| Benefit | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Reduces frustration | The child can ask instead of crying. |
| Builds early vocabulary | Connects a gesture to a clear concept. |
| Encourages turn-taking | Models request-and-response during meals. |
| Boosts confidence | The child sees their communication get results. |
To teach it, model the sign every time you offer more of something the child enjoys, and say the word “more” aloud at the same time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Spreading the fingers. The fingertips should come together to a point, not stay flat or splayed.
- Tapping only once. A repeated tap (two or three times) reads more clearly as “more.”
- Holding the hands too far apart. Keep them close so the tap is visible and centered at the chest.
- Expecting perfect form from a baby. Accept and reward approximations like clapping or fist-tapping while gently refining the shape.
More Across Sign Languages
The concept of “more” is signed differently across the world’s independent sign languages.
| Sign Language | Approach |
|---|---|
| American (ASL) | Two flattened-O hands tapping fingertips |
| British (BSL) | Uses its own distinct gesture |
| Australian (Auslan) | Related to BSL; differs from ASL |
| Baby Sign (ASL-based) | Same fingertip tap, often approximated by infants |
Related Signs to Learn Next
“More” naturally pairs with these essential everyday and mealtime signs:
- ALL DONE / FINISHED — both open hands flip from palm-in to palm-out.
- EAT — flattened-O hand tapping the mouth.
- MILK — squeeze an open hand into a fist, like milking.
- PLEASE — flat hand circling on the chest.
- WANT — both palms up, curling and pulling toward the body.
Because it is simple, useful, and rewarding, “more” is an ideal first sign — for babies learning to communicate and for adults beginning their ASL journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you sign 'more' in ASL?
Pinch the fingers and thumb of each hand together to form two flattened-O handshapes, like the tips of two closed flowers. Then bring your hands together so the fingertips tap each other, repeating the tap two or three times in front of your chest. This means 'more.'
Why is 'more' a popular first baby sign?
'More' is a top first sign because it is highly motivating — babies use it to ask for more food, more play, or more of a favorite activity. It gives infants a way to communicate a clear want before they can speak, which reduces frustration for both child and caregiver.
At what age can a baby learn the sign for 'more'?
Many babies can begin recognizing the 'more' sign around 6 to 9 months and start producing it themselves around 8 to 12 months, though every child differs. Consistent modeling during meals and play, paired with the spoken word, speeds up learning.
What is the difference between 'more' and 'again' in sign language?
'More' taps two flattened-O hands together to request additional quantity. 'Again' (or 'repeat') uses a bent hand arcing over to land in the open palm of the other hand, asking to do something one more time. They overlap in meaning but use different handshapes and motions.
Is it okay if my baby signs 'more' by clapping or tapping fists?
Yes. Babies' motor skills are still developing, so they often approximate 'more' by clapping, tapping fists, or pointing index fingers together. These approximations are completely normal and worth celebrating — refine the handshape gradually as their coordination improves.