How to Sign "Cum"
Form both hands into 'A' handshapes with your thumbs pointing up. Start with your hands slightly apart in front of your chest, palms facing each other. Bring your hands together so that the knuckles touch.
Examples Using "Cum" in a Sentence
1
It is a cafe-cum-bookstore.
To express this, you can sign CAFE, then use this sign to show it is combined 'with' a BOOKSTORE.
2
He graduated magna cum laude.
In ASL, you would sign GRADUATE, then use this sign for 'with', followed by HIGH HONORS.
3
We have a kitchen-cum-dining room.
Sign KITCHEN, use this sign to link the concepts, and then sign DINING ROOM.
How to Sign "Cum"
Form both hands into 'A' handshapes with your thumbs pointing up. Start with your hands slightly apart in front of your chest, palms facing each other. Bring your hands together so that the knuckles touch.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually demonstrates two separate entities coming together and being joined, perfectly representing the concept of 'with' or 'combined'.
Signing Tips
Make sure both hands move toward each other simultaneously. Keep your thumbs pointing up and your wrists straight as your hands meet in the middle of your chest.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving only your dominant hand while keeping the non-dominant hand still. Both hands should move equally to meet in the center. Also, make sure to use 'A' handshapes, not flat hands.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Cum" in a Sentence
1It is a cafe-cum-bookstore.
To express this, you can sign CAFE, then use this sign to show it is combined 'with' a BOOKSTORE.
2He graduated magna cum laude.
In ASL, you would sign GRADUATE, then use this sign for 'with', followed by HIGH HONORS.
3We have a kitchen-cum-dining room.
Sign KITCHEN, use this sign to link the concepts, and then sign DINING ROOM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the same sign as 'with'?
Yes! The sign shown is the standard ASL sign for 'with.' It is used here to translate the Latin preposition 'cum,' which means 'with' or 'combined with' in English phrases.
Can I use this sign for the slang meaning of the word?
No, this sign specifically means 'with' or 'together.' It is appropriate for the prepositional meaning of the word, such as in 'bedroom-cum-office,' but not for slang.
Do my hands need to touch completely?
Yes, the flat parts of your fingers and knuckles on both 'A' handshapes should meet and touch firmly in the center of your chest area.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!