Morse Code Prosigns & Abbreviations
Learn the procedural signals (prosigns) used in Morse code communication: AR, SK, BT, KN, and other abbreviations that control the flow of radio and telegraph messages.
Detailed Explanation
Prosigns in Morse Code
Prosigns (procedural signals) are special Morse code sequences that control the flow of communication. Unlike regular letters, prosigns are sent as single continuous sequences without the normal inter-character gaps.
Common Prosigns
| Prosign | Morse | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| AR | .-.-. |
End of message |
| SK | ...-.- |
End of contact (silent key) |
| BT | -...- |
Break/separator (like a paragraph) |
| KN | -.-. |
Go ahead, only the addressed station |
| BK | -...-.- |
Break (invite the other station to transmit) |
| SOS | ...---... |
International distress signal |
| AS | .-... |
Wait / stand by |
| CL | -.-..-.. |
Closing station |
Q Codes
In addition to prosigns, Morse code operators use Q codes — three-letter abbreviations starting with Q:
QTH = My location is...
QSL = I confirm receipt
QRZ = Who is calling?
QRM = Interference
QRN = Static noise
QSO = Radio contact
QRP = Low power operation
QRS = Send more slowly
QRQ = Send more quickly
CW Abbreviations
Common shorthand used in Morse communication:
73 = Best regards
88 = Love and kisses
OM = Old man (friendly term for male operator)
YL = Young lady (female operator)
HI = Laughter
R = Roger / received
FB = Fine business (great)
TNX = Thanks
Why Prosigns Matter
Prosigns create structure in Morse conversations just as punctuation creates structure in written text. Without prosigns, operators would not know when a message ends, when to reply, or whether the other station has finished.
Use Case
Prosigns and abbreviations are essential knowledge for amateur radio operators, especially those operating CW (continuous wave) mode. They are tested in amateur radio licensing exams and are used daily in ham radio QSOs (contacts) worldwide.