Learning how to say you’re welcome in sign language is an important step toward building polite and respectful conversations in ASL. This simple yet meaningful sign allows you to respond with kindness after someone expresses gratitude.
By practicing it, you not only improve your signing skills but also create more genuine and inclusive interactions with the Deaf community. It’s a phrase that bridges communication gaps and fosters mutual respect.
Whether in daily conversations or formal settings, mastering this sign shows care and cultural awareness.
You’re Welcome in Sign Language
✅ 15 Phrases Table
| No. | Phrase in English | ASL / Alternative Expression | Meaning / Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | You’re welcome | Hand from chin outward | Standard ASL |
| 2 | No problem | Sign for “NO” + “PROBLEM” | Casual reply |
| 3 | Anytime | Circular hand motion | Warm, friendly |
| 4 | Don’t mention it | Shake head + wave off | Humble response |
| 5 | My pleasure | Hand over chest + smile | Polite |
| 6 | Glad to help | Sign “GLAD” + “HELP” | Supportive tone |
| 7 | Of course | Nod + open hand | Agreeable tone |
| 8 | It was nothing | Small wave off motion | Downplaying effort |
| 9 | Sure thing | ASL for “SURE” | Informal |
| 10 | Happy to help | Sign “HAPPY” + “HELP” | Friendly |
| 11 | Always here | Sign “ALWAYS” + point self | Reassuring |
| 12 | No worries | Sign “NO” + “WORRY” | Relaxed tone |
| 13 | Any time you need | Sign “ANYTIME” + gesture | Supportive |
| 14 | Absolutely | Sign “YES” strongly | Confident |
| 15 | You got it | Point + nod | Friendly casual |
Here are 15 ways to say you’re welcome in sign language, with practical examples, cultural insights, and origins to help you use them naturally.
✋ Before We Begin: What Sign Language Are We Using?
This guide uses ASL (American Sign Language), one of the most commonly used sign languages in North America. Remember: each country may have its own sign language, and even within ASL, regional differences exist.
1. You’re Welcome
Sign: Move your flat hand from your chin down and out, like offering something.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (signs “You’re welcome” with the formal hand-from-chin gesture)
Origin:
This is the most traditional ASL sign for “you’re welcome,” and is often taught in sign language classes.
Use: Polite and widely accepted in formal or respectful settings.
2. Nodding with a Smile
Sign: Just nod and smile after someone signs “thank you.”
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (nods and smiles warmly)
Origin:
In Deaf culture, facial expressions are powerful. Sometimes, body language alone is enough.
Use: Casual, friendly; used in everyday conversations.
3. THANK-YOU Repeated Back
Sign: Simply repeat the “thank you” sign back to the person.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (smiles and signs “Thank you” back)
Origin:
A humble or reciprocal way of acknowledging thanks—like saying “thanks to you too!”
Use: Friendly or mutual appreciation.
4. NO PROBLEM
Sign: Form an “O” with each hand, tap fingertips together twice in front of you.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (signs “No problem”)
Origin:
A natural way to downplay the favor, just like in spoken English.
Use: Informal, casual response.
5. SURE
Sign: Index finger moves in a downward stroke from the mouth.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (signs “Sure” with a smile)
Origin:
Simple and agreeable—shows you’re happy to help.
Use: Informal or neutral situations.
6. ANYTIME
Sign: Use your dominant hand in an “A” shape, make a small circular movement near the wrist.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thanks so much!”)
👤 User B: (signs “Anytime”)
Origin:
A classic sign to show you’re always willing to help.
Use: Friendly, supportive context.
7. MY PLEASURE
Sign: “MY” (flat hand on chest) + “PLEASURE” (move open hand in small circular motion on chest)
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you for the help”)
👤 User B: (signs “My pleasure”)
Origin:
Formal or customer-service style; shows sincerity and politeness.
Use: Professional, respectful tone.
8. FIST TAP ON CHEST
Sign: Gently tap a closed fist against your chest.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (smiles and taps chest)
Origin:
A non-verbal form of gratitude acknowledgment, rooted in community culture.
Use: Personal or emotional contexts.
9. THUMBS UP
Sign: Standard thumbs-up gesture.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thanks for your help!”)
👤 User B: (gives a thumbs up)
Origin:
A universal sign of approval—often used among Deaf and hearing alike.
Use: Casual, modern, youthful.
10. WELCOME (Literal Sign)
Sign: Curved hand moves inward toward chest (like “bringing in”).
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you for coming”)
👤 User B: (signs “Welcome”)
Origin:
While this sign literally means “welcome” as in “welcome to my home,” some learners confuse it with “you’re welcome.”
Use: Be cautious—best for greetings, not replies to “thank you.”
11. OF COURSE
Sign: Use the “Y” handshape, flicking it out from the chest.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thanks a ton!”)
👤 User B: (signs “Of course”)
Origin:
Adds enthusiasm and sincerity.
Use: Affirming and warm.
12. GLAD TO HELP
Sign: Combine signs for “GLAD” and “HELP.”
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thanks again!”)
👤 User B: (signs “Glad to help”)
Origin:
Phrase-based construction showing eagerness to assist.
Use: Supportive, friendly tone.
13. HANDWAVE WITH A SMILE
Sign: Gentle wave with a smile.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thank you”)
👤 User B: (gives small wave, smiles)
Origin:
Non-standard but very expressive; common in friendly or warm social settings.
Use: Very casual and affectionate.
14. NOD + THANK-YOU AGAIN
Sign: Nod while repeating “thank you” back softly.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thanks!”)
👤 User B: (nods and signs “Thank you”)
Origin:
Used to emphasize mutual respect or appreciation.
Use: Warm or emotional moments.
15. SIGN NOTHING, JUST SMILE
Sign: No sign—just an expressive, grateful smile.
Example:
👤 User A: (signs “Thanks so much”)
👤 User B: (smiles warmly)
Origin:
In Deaf culture, sometimes silence with expression says everything.
Use: Intimate or informal, when words aren’t necessary.
Conclusion:
Learning how to say you’re welcome in sign language goes beyond a simple gesture—it’s about showing gratitude, respect, and inclusivity. Whether you use ASL or explore polite alternatives, this small phrase creates a big impact in building stronger and more meaningful connections.
