Deaf-and-dumb alphabets, also known as finger alphabets, manual alphabets, or sign alphabets, are systems of hand signs used by people who are deaf and/or mute to communicate with one another or with those who do not know sign language. The most well-known deaf-and-dumb alphabet in the English-speaking world is the American Sign Language (ASL) fingerspelling system. However, there are many other variations of manual alphabets used around the world, such as French sign language, British sign language, and Japanese finger spelling. While these alphabets may differ in some signs and gestures, the core purpose of facilitating communication for the deaf and mute remains the same.