ASL Lessons | Bookstore | Library | ASL University Main ►
CL:1 : The American Sign Language (ASL) sign for "CL:1 / classifier 1"
The "1"-handshape classifier (CL:1) is typically used to show long skinny things:
pencil
pole
person standing in a certain location
person walking upright
one-lane road
tree-branch
stick
rod
knife
WALK: "CL:1 version"
Here's an example of CL:1 being used to show a person walking by:
GO OUT: CL: 1 version
RUNNING over surface: CL: 1
WALKING over surface: CL: 1
Some lexicalized classifiers that have become standardized signs:
CATERPILLAR:
MEET:
BOARD:
Note: At one time the sign for "KILL" was probably based on a "CL1" handshape representing a knife. I'm not saying that the sign for KILL is a classifier. No, no, no. What I'm saying is that many signs started out as classifiers and then became "lexicalized" (standardized, fossilized, frozen into specific signs) and are no longer classifiers. My point here though is that CL1 can be used to show a knife.
Notes: Also see: Classifier 3
* Want to help support ASL University? It's easy: DONATE (Thanks!)
* Another way to help is to buy something from Dr. Bill's "Bookstore."
* Want even more ASL resources? Visit the "ASL Training Center!" (Subscription Extension of ASLU)
* Also check out Dr. Bill's channel: www.youtube.com/billvicars
You can learn American Sign Language (ASL) online at American Sign Language University ™
ASL resources by Lifeprint.com © Dr. William Vicars