How to Sign "Europe"
Form an 'E' handshape with your dominant hand. Place it near the side of your forehead or temple, with your palm facing inward or slightly angled. Move your hand in a small, continuous circle.
Examples Using "Europe" in a Sentence
1
I want to travel to Europe.
Sign 'I', 'WANT', 'TRAVEL', and then use the 'E' handshape circling near your forehead for 'EUROPE'.
2
She is studying the history of Europe.
Sign 'SHE', 'STUDY', 'HISTORY', and finish with the circular motion of the 'E' hand near your temple for 'EUROPE'.
3
We visited Europe last summer.
Establish the timeframe first by signing 'PAST SUMMER', then sign 'WE', 'VISIT', and perform the sign for 'EUROPE' near your head.
How to Sign "Europe"
Form an 'E' handshape with your dominant hand. Place it near the side of your forehead or temple, with your palm facing inward or slightly angled. Move your hand in a small, continuous circle.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for Europe is a classic example of an initialized sign in ASL. It uses the 'E' handshape, representing the first letter of the English word 'Europe.' The circular motion near the head is a traditional placement for this specific continent, distinguishing it from other initialized place names. The movement itself doesn't have a direct visual translation but serves as the standard spatial marker for the region.
Signing Tips
Keep the circular motion small and controlled, staying close to the side of your forehead. Make sure your 'E' handshape is clear, with your fingers curled in and resting on your thumb, so it isn't confused with other signs that use a 'C' or 'S' handshape. Relax your shoulder and let your wrist do most of the work for the circular movement.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is making the circle too large or moving the hand too far away from the head. Beginners also sometimes use a loose handshape instead of a crisp 'E', which can make the sign look sloppy or confusing. Be sure to keep the handshape tight and the motion localized right next to your temple.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Europe" in a Sentence
1I want to travel to Europe.
Sign 'I', 'WANT', 'TRAVEL', and then use the 'E' handshape circling near your forehead for 'EUROPE'.
2She is studying the history of Europe.
Sign 'SHE', 'STUDY', 'HISTORY', and finish with the circular motion of the 'E' hand near your temple for 'EUROPE'.
3We visited Europe last summer.
Establish the timeframe first by signing 'PAST SUMMER', then sign 'WE', 'VISIT', and perform the sign for 'EUROPE' near your head.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the circle go clockwise or counterclockwise?
The exact direction of the circle isn't strictly important, but most signers naturally circle it backward (toward the back of the head) and up. Focus more on keeping the motion small and near the temple.
Can I sign this with my left hand?
Yes! You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs. If you are left-handed, simply make the 'E' handshape and circle it near your left temple.
Why is it signed near the head?
While the exact historical origin of the placement is debated, many initialized signs for countries and continents were placed near the head or in neutral space. The 'E' handshape is the most important part to distinguish it.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!