How to Sign "Us"
The "one" hand shape is used with either hand. The index finger is pointed upward and the palm is facing in. Move the hand from the same side of the body to the opposite side of the body than the hand that is being used. This sign may also be seen inverted, with the index finger pointing downward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'us' is highly visual and intuitive. By using the 'one' handshape and sweeping it from one side of your body to the other, you are physically tracing a boundary that includes yourself and the people around you. The inward-facing palm emphasizes that the group is centered around the speaker.
Signing Tips
When signing 'us', imagine you are drawing a gentle semi-circle or arc that physically encompasses you and the people you are referring to. Make sure your palm stays facing inward toward your body throughout the entire movement. If you choose to use the inverted version with the finger pointing down, keep that same smooth, sweeping motion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is pointing the index finger outward toward the audience instead of keeping the palm facing inward. Another frequent error is moving the hand in a straight, rigid line rather than a smooth, inclusive arc. The movement should feel like you are gathering people together.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Us" in a Sentence
1Are you coming with us?
Point to the person you are asking, sign 'COME', and then sign 'US' by sweeping your index finger from one side of your body to the other with your palm facing inward.
2They gave us a surprise.
Sign 'THEY', then use the directional sign for 'GIVE' moving toward your body, followed by the sign for 'US' sweeping across your chest to show who received it.
3The teacher helped us.
Sign 'TEACHER', then sign 'HELP' moving from the imaginary teacher's position toward yourself, finishing with the 'US' sign to indicate the whole group was helped.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand I use to sign 'us'?
You can use either hand, but it is generally best to use your dominant hand. Just remember to start the sign on the same side of your body as the hand you are using, and move it across to the opposite side.
What is the difference between pointing the finger up or down?
Both variations are perfectly acceptable and mean the exact same thing. Pointing the index finger upward is the most common way to sign it, but some signers naturally prefer the inverted version with the finger pointing downward. Use whichever feels more comfortable.
How is 'us' different from 'we' in ASL?
In standard ASL, the signs for 'us' and 'we' are exactly the same. You use the same sweeping motion with the 'one' handshape across your body. The specific English translation is simply understood based on the context of your sentence.
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