Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Un"

To sign "un", you simply fingerspell the letters U and N. First, form the letter 'U' with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers straight up and keeping them together, while your thumb holds down your ring and pinky fingers. Then, transition to the letter 'N' by folding your index and middle fingers down over your thumb, keeping your palm facing forward throughout the sign.

Examples Using "Un" in a Sentence

1

She works at the UN.

Fingerspell U-N to represent the United Nations, followed by the signs for WORK and THERE.

2

He is unhappy.

In ASL, you do not fingerspell the prefix 'un-'. Instead, you would sign NOT followed by HAPPY, or use a facial expression to show displeasure.

3

The UN meeting is tomorrow.

Fingerspell U-N, then sign MEETING and TOMORROW to convey the sentence.

How to Sign "Un"
To sign "un", you simply fingerspell the letters U and N. First, form the letter 'U' with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers straight up and keeping them together, while your thumb holds down your ring and pinky fingers. Then, transition to the letter 'N' by folding your index and middle fingers down over your thumb, keeping your palm facing forward throughout the sign.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a direct fingerspelling of the English letters 'U' and 'N'. In ASL, short acronyms like 'UN' for the United Nations are commonly fingerspelled. Note that if you are trying to sign an English word with the prefix 'un-' (like 'undo' or 'unhappy'), ASL typically uses a sign for 'NOT' or a specific sign for the opposite concept rather than fingerspelling the prefix.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling short acronyms or words like 'UN', keep your hand steady in one location. Avoid bouncing your hand or moving it to the side between the 'U' and the 'N'. Focus on a smooth, clear transition from the extended fingers of the 'U' to the folded fingers of the 'N' while keeping your palm facing outward.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is bouncing the hand up and down for each letter, which makes it harder to read. Another frequent error is confusing the 'N' handshape with an 'M'. Remember that for 'N', only the index and middle fingers drape over the thumb, whereas 'M' uses three fingers.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Un" in a Sentence
1

She works at the UN.

Fingerspell U-N to represent the United Nations, followed by the signs for WORK and THERE.

2

He is unhappy.

In ASL, you do not fingerspell the prefix 'un-'. Instead, you would sign NOT followed by HAPPY, or use a facial expression to show displeasure.

3

The UN meeting is tomorrow.

Fingerspell U-N, then sign MEETING and TOMORROW to convey the sentence.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I fingerspell 'un' for words like 'unhappy'?

No, in ASL, you generally do not fingerspell English prefixes. To sign 'unhappy', you would sign 'NOT' followed by 'HAPPY', or use a single sign that conveys the opposite meaning.

What does fingerspelling U-N usually mean in ASL?

Fingerspelling U-N is most commonly used as an acronym for the United Nations. It is a quick, two-letter abbreviation recognized in political and global contexts.

Should I move my hand when fingerspelling U-N?

No, keep your hand in a comfortable, stationary position around shoulder height. Let your fingers do the work of transitioning from 'U' to 'N' without bouncing your arm.

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