Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Communication"

To sign 'communication', form both hands into 'C' shapes. Hold them in front of your mouth or upper chest with the palms facing each other. Move your hands back and forth in an alternating motion, so as one hand moves forward toward the person you are signing to, the other moves backward toward yourself.

Examples Using "Communication" in a Sentence

1

Good communication is important.

To sign this, you would first sign 'good' by moving your dominant hand from your chin to your non-dominant hand, then sign 'communication' with the alternating 'C' hands, and finally sign 'important'.

2

We need to improve our communication.

Start by signing 'we' and 'need', then use the sign for 'improve'. Finish the sentence by signing 'our' and then 'communication' using the back-and-forth 'C' handshapes near your mouth.

3

Communication is key to a healthy relationship.

Begin with the sign for 'communication'. Then sign 'key' (or 'important'), followed by 'healthy', and finish with the sign for 'relationship', which also uses a back-and-forth linking motion.

How to Sign "Communication"
To sign 'communication', form both hands into 'C' shapes. Hold them in front of your mouth or upper chest with the palms facing each other. Move your hands back and forth in an alternating motion, so as one hand moves forward toward the person you are signing to, the other moves backward toward yourself.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized sign, meaning it uses the 'C' handshape from the English word 'communication'. The alternating back-and-forth movement near the mouth visually represents the two-way exchange of words, thoughts, or information between people.
Signing Tips
Keep the alternating movement smooth and fluid to represent a continuous, ongoing exchange. Ensure your 'C' handshapes are clearly formed and positioned near your mouth, as this is where spoken communication originates.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving both hands forward and backward at the exact same time instead of alternating them. Another frequent error is making the movement too large or placing the hands too low on the chest rather than up near the mouth.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Communication" in a Sentence
1

Good communication is important.

To sign this, you would first sign 'good' by moving your dominant hand from your chin to your non-dominant hand, then sign 'communication' with the alternating 'C' hands, and finally sign 'important'.

2

We need to improve our communication.

Start by signing 'we' and 'need', then use the sign for 'improve'. Finish the sentence by signing 'our' and then 'communication' using the back-and-forth 'C' handshapes near your mouth.

3

Communication is key to a healthy relationship.

Begin with the sign for 'communication'. Then sign 'key' (or 'important'), followed by 'healthy', and finish with the sign for 'relationship', which also uses a back-and-forth linking motion.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'communication' and 'talking' in ASL?

The sign for 'talking' typically uses a '4' handshape tapping near the mouth, focusing on the act of speaking. 'Communication' uses alternating 'C' handshapes to emphasize the two-way exchange and back-and-forth nature of sharing information.

Can I use this sign for digital communication like texting or emailing?

Yes, this sign can be used as a broad, general term for any form of communication. However, if you want to be more precise about the method, there are specific signs for 'texting', 'typing', or 'emailing'.

Does it matter which hand moves forward first?

No, it doesn't matter which hand starts the forward motion. The most important part of the sign is the continuous, alternating back-and-forth movement of the 'C' handshapes.

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