How to Sign "Of"
The sign 'of' is fingerspelled. Press the fingertips of all fingers together to make an O hand shape. Bring the pinkie, ring, and middle fingers up to make the F hand shape.
Examples Using "Of" in a Sentence
1
The United States of America.
In formal titles or proper names, 'of' is sometimes included. You would sign 'UNITED', 'STATES', then smoothly fingerspell O-F as described by keeping the thumb and index connected, followed by 'AMERICA'.
2
I would like a cup of coffee.
In everyday ASL grammar, 'of' is usually dropped entirely! You would simply sign 'CUP' and then 'COFFEE'. However, if you are emphasizing the exact English phrase, you would fingerspell O-F between the two words.
3
The Declaration of Independence.
For historical documents or specific proper nouns, you might include the word. Sign 'DECLARATION', fingerspell O-F by transitioning smoothly from the O handshape to the F handshape, and then sign 'INDEPENDENCE'.
How to Sign "Of"
The sign 'of' is fingerspelled. Press the fingertips of all fingers together to make an O hand shape. Bring the pinkie, ring, and middle fingers up to make the F hand shape.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a direct representation of the English word 'of', created through a process called lexicalized fingerspelling. In ASL, when short English words are fingerspelled very frequently, the letters begin to blend together into a single, fluid motion. This blended motion eventually looks and functions more like a unique sign than a sequence of individual letters. Because the 'O' and 'F' handshapes share the same connected thumb and index finger, the visual transition is incredibly fast, making it a perfect candidate for lexicalization.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling 'of', don't treat it as two completely separate, rigid letters. Instead, let the 'O' flow naturally into the 'F'. Because your thumb and index finger are already touching to form the 'O' handshape, you do not need to separate them. Keep those two fingers connected and simply pop your middle, ring, and pinkie fingers up to form the 'F'. Practicing this fluid motion creates a smooth, quick, and natural lexicalized sign that is easy to read.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is separating the letters too much by dropping the hand, bouncing the wrist, or breaking the connection between the thumb and index finger between the two letters. Remember that the thumb and index finger stay touching the entire time. Another mistake is overusing the sign; beginners often try to translate English sentences word-for-word, but in ASL, 'of' is usually omitted entirely unless it is part of a proper title.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Of" in a Sentence
1The United States of America.
In formal titles or proper names, 'of' is sometimes included. You would sign 'UNITED', 'STATES', then smoothly fingerspell O-F as described by keeping the thumb and index connected, followed by 'AMERICA'.
2I would like a cup of coffee.
In everyday ASL grammar, 'of' is usually dropped entirely! You would simply sign 'CUP' and then 'COFFEE'. However, if you are emphasizing the exact English phrase, you would fingerspell O-F between the two words.
3The Declaration of Independence.
For historical documents or specific proper nouns, you might include the word. Sign 'DECLARATION', fingerspell O-F by transitioning smoothly from the O handshape to the F handshape, and then sign 'INDEPENDENCE'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need to sign 'of' when speaking English?
No! In true American Sign Language, the word 'of' is almost always omitted. For example, 'piece of cake' is just signed 'PIECE CAKE.' You typically only fingerspell O-F for formal titles, book names, or when signing in exact English word order.
Should I bounce my hand between the 'O' and the 'F'?
Avoid bouncing or moving your hand forward between the letters. Keep your wrist relatively still and in one place. The only movement should be your pinkie, ring, and middle fingers extending upward to change the handshape.
Why do my fingers feel stiff when switching from O to F?
This usually happens if you are pressing your fingertips together too tightly during the 'O' handshape. Keep your hand relaxed. A gentle touch between the thumb and index finger is all you need, allowing the other fingers to spring up easily for the 'F'.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!