How to Sign "Empire"

To sign 'empire', form 'E' handshapes with both hands. Hold them in front of your body with your palms facing down. Move both hands outward and around in a large, sweeping horizontal circle, bringing them back together in front of you to outline a vast territory.

Examples Using "Empire" in a Sentence

1

The Roman Empire was very powerful.

Sign 'Roman', then use the 'empire' sign with a large, deliberate circular motion to emphasize its size, followed by 'powerful'.

2

She built a massive business empire.

Sign 'she build business', then sign 'empire'. You can make the circle larger to visually show that the business empire is massive.

3

The ancient empire fell long ago.

Sign 'past' or 'ancient', then 'empire', and finish with the sign for 'fall' or 'collapse'.

How to Sign "Empire"
To sign 'empire', form 'E' handshapes with both hands. Hold them in front of your body with your palms facing down. Move both hands outward and around in a large, sweeping horizontal circle, bringing them back together in front of you to outline a vast territory.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized version of the ASL sign for 'area' or 'land.' By incorporating the 'E' handshape, it specifically denotes an 'empire,' combining the visual concept of a large, sweeping territory with the first letter of the English word.
Signing Tips
Keep your palms facing downward throughout the entire movement. Ensure your 'E' handshapes are clearly formed by curling your fingers in to rest on your thumbs. The circular motion should be smooth and horizontal, representing the vast expanse of land or territory that an empire covers.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using 'S' or 'A' handshapes instead of 'E' handshapes, which can confuse the sign with other concepts. Another mistake is making the circular motion vertical rather than horizontal; the movement should outline a flat area of land.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Empire" in a Sentence
1

The Roman Empire was very powerful.

Sign 'Roman', then use the 'empire' sign with a large, deliberate circular motion to emphasize its size, followed by 'powerful'.

2

She built a massive business empire.

Sign 'she build business', then sign 'empire'. You can make the circle larger to visually show that the business empire is massive.

3

The ancient empire fell long ago.

Sign 'past' or 'ancient', then 'empire', and finish with the sign for 'fall' or 'collapse'.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'empire' and 'area' in ASL?

The sign for 'area' typically uses open '5' hands moving in a similar horizontal circle. 'Empire' uses the exact same movement but is initialized with 'E' handshapes to specify the English word.

Can I use this sign for a business empire?

Yes! While it is often used for historical or political empires, you can absolutely use this sign metaphorically to describe a massive business or corporate organization.

Does the size of the circle I make matter?

Yes, in ASL, the size of your movement can convey adjectives. Making a larger, wider circle emphasizes the vastness, greatness, or massive scale of the empire you are discussing.

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