How to sign “Relationships” in ASL

Everyday Life

The BSL sign for “Relationships” isn't in our dictionary yet — it will be fingerspelled in BSL mode, never replaced with this ASL sign.

Step by step

  1. Bend the fingers of both hands into loose hooks, like two clasps ready to link.
  2. Bring both hooked hands together at mid-chest, interlocking the fingers of one hand with the other.
  3. Slide the linked hands back and forth against each other in a short cooperative sawing motion.
  4. Keep your palms facing each other while the hooked fingers stay interlocked.
  5. Hold a warm, engaged expression — the sign also means COOPERATION, so show the teamwork.

Practice tip

Plural of “Relationship” — sign the base sign (often repeated) for more than one.

Fingerspell “Relationships”

Letter by letter — a handy backup if you forget the sign above. This is not the sign itself.

ASL handshape for letter RASL handshape for letter EASL handshape for letter LASL handshape for letter AASL handshape for letter TASL handshape for letter IASL handshape for letter OASL handshape for letter NASL handshape for letter SASL handshape for letter HASL handshape for letter IASL handshape for letter PASL handshape for letter S

See all ASL handshapes in the alphabet reference

Text-based guide researched from established ASL references (Lifeprint, university and public-health materials) and rewritten in original words. Signer-created photos and videos are a planned future upgrade.

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