How to sign "yesterday" in ASL

How to Sign "Yesterday"

“Yesterday” is signed by bringing your dominant “Y” handshape from near your cheek back toward shoulder:

  • Form a “Y” handshape (thumb and pinky extended, other fingers closed).
  • Start near your jaw or cheek.
  • Pull the hand backward toward your shoulder in a fluid motion.

Watch a demo here

Tips

  • The backward pull suggests the past—think “folding back time.”
  • Keep the motion smooth—not jerky or overly dramatic.

Common Mistakes

  • Using a straight “A” shape rather than a clear “Y.”
  • Moving hand forward or downward—must be pulled back past cheek.

Think: “Y at cheek, pull back—yesterday.”

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