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In a question such as this "best" is a relative term. What is best for you, may not best for someone else. Also when learning American Sign Language you should not stick to using Sign Language Dictionaries alone, because these often lack the necessary descriptions for proper ASL Grammar and Syntax. Dictionaries are helpful for you to learn individual signs in a general way, but many signs are modified or altered when used in context. Instead you should use a variety of sources, depending on your needs and preferences. Sign Language websites such as [related links] and [related links] can help tremendously, because you can watch videos of the signs. Also, workbooks that explain ASL Grammar and Syntax can be very useful.

Unlike some of my associates I do not believe that learning out-dated signs is counter-productive. Instead, I believe that learning these out-dated signs in relation to their modern counterparts can help one realize the reality of Sign Language Evolution. However, for beginners I recommend that they first buy modern books and resources, before divulging into more historical tomes.

To note your question, however, a few of the better ASL dictionaries and books I have personally run across are: The Joy of Signing by Lottie L. Riekehof , Random House Webster's Sign Language Dictionary, Barron's American Sign Language (Second Edition) The Easy Way, American Sign Language Dictionary (Third Edition) by Martin L.A. Sternberg, Signing Illustrated: The Complete Learning Guide by Mickey Flodin {special note: there is an error on the page number for the answers to the quizes in this book, the page number listed is 285, the actual page number for the quiz answers is 318}, and Learning American Sign Language: Levels I & II Beginning & Intermediate [Book] by Tom L. Humphries, Carol Padden.

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11y ago
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2w ago

The Gallaudet University Press has a comprehensive American Sign Language dictionary that is highly regarded. It's available in print and digital formats and is used by students, teachers, and interpreters.

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How do you say ryhthm and blues using sign language?

In American Sign Language, you can sign "rhythm" by moving your right hand in a circular motion in front of your chest. To sign "blues," you can use a sign that represents sadness or feeling down. Together, you can sign "rhythm and blues" by combining these signs in sequence.


What year did sign language become an official language?

American Sign Language (ASL) was recognized as an official language in the United States in 1960 with the passage of the William Stokoe Jr.'s "Dictionary of American Sign Language on Linguistic Principles."


How do you say my name is gabrielle in sign language?

In American Sign Language, you would sign: "MY NAME G-A-B-R-I-E-L-L-E."


American Sign Language what does ameslam mean?

American Sign Language was once known {or referred to} (primarily by hearing people, or disability advocacy groups such as the American Red Cross) as Ameslan. There is no distinction between Ameslan and American Sign Language, except that the term "Ameslan" is no longer in prominent usage, wheras the terms American Sign Language and the abbreviated form ASL are. Currently, it is more proper to refer to this Sign Language as American Sign Language rather than Ameslan.


Is Korean Sign Language similar to American Sign Language?

Korean Sign Language (KSL) and American Sign Language (ASL) are different languages with distinct grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. While there may be some signs that are similar due to contact and borrowing between deaf communities, the two languages are not mutually intelligible.

Related questions

What has the author Elaine Costello written?

Elaine Costello has written: 'Random House Webster's American Sign Language dictionary' -- subject(s): American Sign Language, Dictionaries 'Random House Webster's American Sign Language Legal Dictionary' 'Say it by signing' -- subject(s): Deaf, Education, English language, Sign language, Study and teaching 'Grandmothers Say It Best' 'Random House Webster's American Sign Language Computer Dictionary' 'Infinitives and gerunds' 'Verbs, past, present, and future (Structured tasks for English practice)' 'Religious signing' -- subject(s): American Sign Language, Christianity, Church work with the deaf, Dictionaries, Judaism, Sign language, Terminology, American sign language 'Random House Webster's pocket American sign language dictionary' -- subject(s): American Sign Language, Dictionaries


What is the sign for the word 'care' in American Sign Language?

Please find the word in the video dictionary by following the link provided.


How do you say ryhthm and blues using sign language?

In American Sign Language, you can sign "rhythm" by moving your right hand in a circular motion in front of your chest. To sign "blues," you can use a sign that represents sadness or feeling down. Together, you can sign "rhythm and blues" by combining these signs in sequence.


What year did sign language become an official language?

American Sign Language (ASL) was recognized as an official language in the United States in 1960 with the passage of the William Stokoe Jr.'s "Dictionary of American Sign Language on Linguistic Principles."


How do you say my name is gabrielle in sign language?

In American Sign Language, you would sign: "MY NAME G-A-B-R-I-E-L-L-E."


What is the largest sign language in the world?

ASL, American Sign Language


Who is American Sign Language establishment?

I need to know about ASL that person who was established for American Sign Language. Who?


How do you sign Helen Keller in sign language?

In what? American Sign Lnaguage? British Sign Language?, etc?


Did Andrew Foster speak American Sign Language?

Yes, Andrew Foster was fluent in American Sign Language.


American Sign Language what does ameslam mean?

American Sign Language was once known {or referred to} (primarily by hearing people, or disability advocacy groups such as the American Red Cross) as Ameslan. There is no distinction between Ameslan and American Sign Language, except that the term "Ameslan" is no longer in prominent usage, wheras the terms American Sign Language and the abbreviated form ASL are. Currently, it is more proper to refer to this Sign Language as American Sign Language rather than Ameslan.


What has the author Rod R Butterworth written?

Rod R. Butterworth has written: 'The Perigee visual dictionary of signing' -- subject(s): American Sign Language, Dictionaries


Is Korean Sign Language similar to American Sign Language?

Korean Sign Language (KSL) and American Sign Language (ASL) are different languages with distinct grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. While there may be some signs that are similar due to contact and borrowing between deaf communities, the two languages are not mutually intelligible.