Signs for FOUR

Meaning: a number that is one more than three; a symbol of this number, 4 or IV or IIII.

The palm orientation faces towards the signer for the cardinal number (dollar, number, year). Except for the exclamation.

But, the palm faces towards the listener when telling age, o'clock, etc.

Written ASL

[Note: ASL writing is not an official standard. This sign language writing remains in a state of open space to allow room for experiment, evolution, and improvement.]

Contributed by ASLwrite.

Deaf Culture and tidbits

Deaf Culture

This cartoon reminds me of a heartbreaking story told by a woman in the video Unveiled Audism.

In the story, the woman came to a class to observe the class. When the teacher wrote on the board "2+2", the deaf kid excitedly replied "4" in ASL. The teacher shook his/her head, "No, wrong! Say it using voice!"

There are also stories in this similar vein where deaf kids were forbidden from using sign language.

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