This is often asked by new signers. ASL is a language that has a unique grammar and vocabulary that is different from English or any other spoken language. Signing Exact English is a sign communication system that uses signs and fingerspelling to code English. When you sign in Signing Exact English you are signing in English word order. Most of the signs used in Signing Exact English are the same as the signs used in ASL. When you sign in ASL you are using a grammar that is different from English.