How to Sign "Network"

To sign 'network', start with both hands in an 'open 8' handshape, where your middle fingers are bent forward and your other fingers are extended. Bring your hands together in front of your chest so the tips of your middle fingers touch. Then, pull both hands apart, moving them outward to the sides to represent the spreading of a network.

Examples Using "Network" in a Sentence

1

The computer network is down.

To sign this, you can sign 'computer', then 'network', and finish with 'broken' or 'off' to indicate the system outage.

2

I want to build my professional network.

Sign 'I', 'want', 'build', and then 'network' to show the concept of expanding your professional connections.

3

We have a large network of friends.

Sign 'we', 'have', 'large', and then 'network' followed by 'friends' to describe a wide circle of people.

How to Sign "Network"
To sign 'network', start with both hands in an 'open 8' handshape, where your middle fingers are bent forward and your other fingers are extended. Bring your hands together in front of your chest so the tips of your middle fingers touch. Then, pull both hands apart, moving them outward to the sides to represent the spreading of a network.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The 'open 8' handshape is frequently used in ASL for concepts related to technology, contact, and connectivity. The outward sweeping motion visually depicts a web or a system expanding outward, perfectly illustrating the concept of a network spreading and connecting multiple points.
Signing Tips
Focus on maintaining a clear 'open 8' handshape throughout the sign. Keep your movement smooth and deliberate as you pull your hands apart. Imagine you are tracing the top edge of a wide web spreading outwards from a central point.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake is wiggling the hands back and forth while the middle fingers touch, which is actually the sign for 'internet'. Another common error is using the index fingers instead of the middle fingers, which can confuse the meaning.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Network" in a Sentence
1

The computer network is down.

To sign this, you can sign 'computer', then 'network', and finish with 'broken' or 'off' to indicate the system outage.

2

I want to build my professional network.

Sign 'I', 'want', 'build', and then 'network' to show the concept of expanding your professional connections.

3

We have a large network of friends.

Sign 'we', 'have', 'large', and then 'network' followed by 'friends' to describe a wide circle of people.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'network' and 'internet'?

While both use the 'open 8' handshape, 'internet' involves keeping the middle fingers touching and wiggling the hands in a twisting motion. 'Network' involves touching the middle fingers once and then pulling the hands apart.

Can I use this sign for networking with people?

Yes! This sign is versatile and can be used for both computer networks and professional or social networking, as it represents the core idea of widespread, expanding connections.

How far apart should I move my hands?

Move your hands outward to just past your shoulders. A comfortable, moderate distance is best unless you are specifically trying to emphasize a massive, global network.

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