How to Sign "Match"
Same of two things
Examples Using "Match" in a Sentence
1
Our shirts match today!
Sign 'our' and 'shirt,' then use the 'match' sign to show that the clothing items go together perfectly.
2
Do these colors match?
Sign 'color,' point to the items, and use the 'match' sign while raising your eyebrows to ask a yes/no question.
3
They are a perfect match.
Point to the two people or items, sign 'perfect,' and then use the 'match' sign to show how well they complement each other.
How to Sign "Match"
Same of two things
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual logic of this sign is highly iconic and easy for beginners to remember. Your two hands represent two separate items, ideas, or even people. By bringing them together and interlocking the fingers, you are visually demonstrating two distinct things coming together to fit perfectly, much like two puzzle pieces connecting or gears aligning. This beautifully captures the concept of two things complementing each other or being a perfect pair.
Signing Tips
When signing 'match,' keep your hands relaxed and your fingers slightly spread in a loose claw shape. The movement should be a single, deliberate motion where the fingers slide between each other, stopping firmly once they interlock. Make sure your palms are facing your chest throughout the sign. To emphasize that two things match perfectly or exactly, you can make the movement sharper and more pronounced, adding an affirmative nod.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake for beginners is bouncing the interlocked hands up and down after bringing them together. Bouncing the hands actually changes the meaning of the word entirely to 'machine' or 'factory.' To avoid this confusion, ensure you only bring your hands together once and stop firmly to clearly convey 'match.' Additionally, avoid clenching your fingers too tightly; keep the interlocking motion relatively loose and natural.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Match" in a Sentence
1Our shirts match today!
Sign 'our' and 'shirt,' then use the 'match' sign to show that the clothing items go together perfectly.
2Do these colors match?
Sign 'color,' point to the items, and use the 'match' sign while raising your eyebrows to ask a yes/no question.
3They are a perfect match.
Point to the two people or items, sign 'perfect,' and then use the 'match' sign to show how well they complement each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for a sports match?
No, this sign is specifically for items that go together or look alike. For a sports match or competition, you should use the sign for 'game,' which involves bumping two 'A' handshapes together at the knuckles.
Is this the same sign used for a match that starts a fire?
No, a fire match has a completely different sign. To sign a fire match, you mimic the action of striking a matchstick against a matchbox using your dominant index finger against your non-dominant palm.
How do I know if I'm signing 'match' or 'machine'?
It all comes down to the movement! Both signs use the same interlocking handshape, but 'match' is a single, firm motion bringing the hands together. 'Machine' requires you to bounce the interlocked hands up and down a few times.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!