Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Union"

To sign 'union', start with both hands in a 'U' handshape, keeping your index and middle fingers extended and pressed together while the other fingers are folded into your palms. Hold your hands in front of your chest, slightly apart, with your palms facing upward. Bring your hands together in a smooth, sweeping circular motion until the extended fingers of both hands meet and cross over each other in the center. This motion clearly and visually represents two separate entities coming together to form a single, united group.

Examples Using "Union" in a Sentence

1

The workers formed a union.

To sign this sentence, start by signing 'WORKER' using both hands to establish the subject. Then, perform the 'union' sign to show those workers coming together as an organized, official group. This clearly conveys the concept of forming a labor union.

2

The student union is open late.

Begin by signing 'STUDENT', then follow it immediately with the sign for 'union' to establish the specific location on campus. Finish the sentence by signing 'OPEN' and 'LATE' to clearly let others know the building's extended operating hours.

3

We support the union.

Start by signing 'WE' to establish who is taking action. Next, sign 'SUPPORT' by pushing your dominant fist up under your non-dominant fist to show lifting something up. Finally, perform the 'union' sign to complete the thought and show what you are supporting.

How to Sign "Union"
To sign 'union', start with both hands in a 'U' handshape, keeping your index and middle fingers extended and pressed together while the other fingers are folded into your palms. Hold your hands in front of your chest, slightly apart, with your palms facing upward. Bring your hands together in a smooth, sweeping circular motion until the extended fingers of both hands meet and cross over each other in the center. This motion clearly and visually represents two separate entities coming together to form a single, united group.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a classic example of initialization in American Sign Language. It borrows the exact movement from the ASL sign for 'join' or 'connect' but incorporates the 'U' handshape to specifically represent the English word 'union.' The physical motion of the two hands starting apart and sweeping together perfectly illustrates the iconic concept of separate individuals or groups uniting into one cohesive entity.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your index and middle fingers glued tightly together to form a crisp, clear 'U' handshape on both hands. The movement should feel fluid, deliberate, and symmetrical, mimicking the physical act of gathering separate things together into a single central point. Make sure your palms remain facing upward throughout the entire motion so the sign is easily visible and recognizable.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake for beginners is using 'F' handshapes (where the index finger and thumb touch to form a circle) instead of 'U' handshapes. While the sweeping motion is identical, using 'F' hands changes the word entirely to 'join' or 'connect.' Always double-check that your index and middle fingers are extended to keep the sign properly initialized for the word 'union'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Union" in a Sentence
1

The workers formed a union.

To sign this sentence, start by signing 'WORKER' using both hands to establish the subject. Then, perform the 'union' sign to show those workers coming together as an organized, official group. This clearly conveys the concept of forming a labor union.

2

The student union is open late.

Begin by signing 'STUDENT', then follow it immediately with the sign for 'union' to establish the specific location on campus. Finish the sentence by signing 'OPEN' and 'LATE' to clearly let others know the building's extended operating hours.

3

We support the union.

Start by signing 'WE' to establish who is taking action. Next, sign 'SUPPORT' by pushing your dominant fist up under your non-dominant fist to show lifting something up. Finally, perform the 'union' sign to complete the thought and show what you are supporting.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for "union" the same as the sign for "join"?

They are very similar in their movement, but they use different handshapes. 'Union' is an initialized sign that uses 'U' handshapes. On the other hand, the sign for 'join' uses 'F' handshapes where the thumbs and index fingers interlock with each other.

Can I use this sign to talk about a marriage union?

While this sign literally means 'union,' a marriage is typically signed using its own specific ASL sign, which involves clasping both hands together. The 'union' sign is much better suited for contexts like labor unions, student unions, or political alliances.

Does it matter which hand is on top when they cross?

No, it does not matter which hand rests slightly above the other when your 'U' fingers meet in the middle. As long as both hands come together smoothly in the center to show a connection, the sign will be perfectly understood.

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