Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "China"

To sign "China," form your dominant hand into a pointing index finger (a "1" handshape). Touch the tip of your index finger to the upper left side of your chest. Next, bring it across to touch the upper right side of your chest, and finally, move it straight down to touch your lower right torso or waist. The movement traces a shape similar to a right angle or the number "7" on your body.

Examples Using "China" in a Sentence

1

I want to visit China.

Sign "I," "want," and "visit," then perform the sign for "China" by tracing the three points (left chest, right chest, right waist) with your index finger.

2

She is from China.

Point to the person for "she," sign "from," and finish with the sign for "China," making sure your index finger makes clear contact with your torso.

3

Chinese food is delicious.

Use the sign for "China" (which also means Chinese in this context), then sign "food," and finish with the sign for "delicious" while showing a pleasant facial expression.

How to Sign "China"
To sign "China," form your dominant hand into a pointing index finger (a "1" handshape). Touch the tip of your index finger to the upper left side of your chest. Next, bring it across to touch the upper right side of your chest, and finally, move it straight down to touch your lower right torso or waist. The movement traces a shape similar to a right angle or the number "7" on your body.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for China is visually motivated by the traditional high-collared tunics (often known as Mao suits) historically worn in China. The movement of the index finger traces the placement of the buttons or badges that run across the chest and down the side of these iconic uniforms.
Signing Tips
Keep the movement crisp and deliberate. Make sure you actually make light contact with your torso at the three points (left chest, right chest, right waist) rather than just waving your finger in the air. This helps the sign look clear and intentional.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a flat hand instead of just the index finger, or forgetting the final downward movement. Make sure to keep your other fingers tucked in and complete the full three-point path across and down your torso.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "China" in a Sentence
1

I want to visit China.

Sign "I," "want," and "visit," then perform the sign for "China" by tracing the three points (left chest, right chest, right waist) with your index finger.

2

She is from China.

Point to the person for "she," sign "from," and finish with the sign for "China," making sure your index finger makes clear contact with your torso.

3

Chinese food is delicious.

Use the sign for "China" (which also means Chinese in this context), then sign "food," and finish with the sign for "delicious" while showing a pleasant facial expression.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'China' the same as 'Chinese'?

Yes! In ASL, the sign for the country 'China' is also used for the adjective 'Chinese,' such as when talking about Chinese food, culture, or people. The context of your sentence will make the exact meaning clear.

Do I have to use my right hand to sign 'China'?

You should use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, start on your left chest, move to your right chest, and go down to your right waist. If you are left-handed, mirror the movement: start on your right chest, move to your left chest, and go down to your left waist.

Why do we trace this specific shape on the body?

The movement represents the style of traditional Chinese tunics or military uniforms. By tracing across the chest and down the side, you are visually outlining where the buttons or badges would be placed on those garments.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!