How to Sign "V"
To sign the letter 'V', hold up your dominant hand with your palm facing outward. Extend your index and middle fingers straight up and spread them apart to form a 'V' shape. Tuck your thumb over your curled ring and pinky fingers.
Examples Using "V" in a Sentence
1
My friend's name is Victor.
When introducing someone named Victor, you will need to fingerspell their name. You would sign 'MY FRIEND NAME' and then smoothly transition into fingerspelling V-I-C-T-O-R, making sure to start with a clear, palm-out 'V' handshape.
2
I love vanilla ice cream.
Many ASL signs are 'initialized,' meaning they use the first letter of the English word. For example, the sign for 'vanilla' uses the 'V' handshape. You simply form the 'V' and shake your hand slightly side-to-side.
3
I need to go to the DMV.
When referring to the Department of Motor Vehicles, you use the acronym. You would fingerspell the letters D-M-V in quick succession. For the final letter, you will extend and spread your index and middle fingers to form the 'V' shape.
How to Sign "V"
To sign the letter 'V', hold up your dominant hand with your palm facing outward. Extend your index and middle fingers straight up and spread them apart to form a 'V' shape. Tuck your thumb over your curled ring and pinky fingers.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The ASL sign for the letter 'V' is highly iconic, meaning it visually represents the concept it stands for. The two extended and separated fingers—the index and middle fingers—perfectly mimic the two angled, converging lines of the written English letter 'V'. Because it looks exactly like the printed letter, it is one of the easiest manual alphabet handshapes for beginners to remember.
Signing Tips
Keep your index and middle fingers clearly separated so the 'V' shape is distinct and easily readable. Make sure your palm is facing outward toward the person you are communicating with. Keep your wrist relaxed but steady, avoiding any unnecessary bouncing, pushing, or twisting when fingerspelling words. Practicing in front of a mirror can help ensure your handshape looks crisp.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is letting the index and middle fingers touch or drift together, which accidentally turns the sign into the letter 'U'. Another frequent error is failing to tuck the thumb securely over the ring and pinky fingers, making the handshape look sloppy. Finally, ensure your palm isn't facing inward toward yourself, as most letters are signed palm-out.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "V" in a Sentence
1My friend's name is Victor.
When introducing someone named Victor, you will need to fingerspell their name. You would sign 'MY FRIEND NAME' and then smoothly transition into fingerspelling V-I-C-T-O-R, making sure to start with a clear, palm-out 'V' handshape.
2I love vanilla ice cream.
Many ASL signs are 'initialized,' meaning they use the first letter of the English word. For example, the sign for 'vanilla' uses the 'V' handshape. You simply form the 'V' and shake your hand slightly side-to-side.
3I need to go to the DMV.
When referring to the Department of Motor Vehicles, you use the acronym. You would fingerspell the letters D-M-V in quick succession. For the final letter, you will extend and spread your index and middle fingers to form the 'V' shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the letter 'V' and the number '2' in ASL?
Both signs use the exact same handshape, with the index and middle fingers extended and spread apart. However, context and palm orientation matter. When signing the number '2' in a sequence, the palm usually faces inward toward you. For the letter 'V', the palm always faces outward.
Why does my hand cramp when trying to hold down my pinky and ring fingers?
It is very common for beginners to experience slight tension or cramping when isolating fingers. Try not to squeeze your hand too tightly. Gently rest your thumb over your ring and pinky fingers to hold them down, keeping your hand as relaxed as possible while maintaining the shape.
Can I use my left hand to sign the letter 'V'?
Absolutely! In ASL, you should always fingerspell and perform one-handed signs using your dominant hand. If you are left-handed, simply use your left hand to sign 'V' and all other letters of the alphabet. Just make sure your palm is still facing outward toward the viewer.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!