How to Say “Across” in Sign Language: A Comprehensive Guide

Learning sign language allows individuals to communicate effectively with members of the Deaf community and enhances inclusivity and accessibility. One common word that frequently comes up in conversations is “across.” In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “across” in sign language, including formal and informal ways. We will also provide tips, examples, and discuss any regional variations that may exist.

Formal Ways to Say “Across” in Sign Language:

When signing “across” in a formal setting, it is essential to use clear and understood signs to convey your message effectively. Here are two commonly used formal signs:

1. Flat Hand Movement:

One way to sign “across” formally is by using a flat hand movement. Start by placing your dominant hand flat with fingers extended and palm facing down. Move your hand horizontally from one side to the other, representing the concept of “across.” Ensure your movement is smooth and fluid.

Example: Imagine you want to say, “The bridge stretches across the river.” Begin the sentence with the sign for “bridge” and then transition to the sign for “across” using the flat hand movement. Remember to fluidly move your hand horizontally from one side to the other, mimicking the idea of something extending or spanning across a space.

2. Two-Handed Sign:

Another way to express “across” formally in sign language is by using a two-handed sign. Begin by extending both hands in front of you, palms down and fingers pointing forward. Place one hand on the left side and the other on the right side. Move both hands simultaneously, crossing them until they switch positions. This sign signifies an object or concept moving across from one side to the other.

Example: Suppose you want to say, “Let’s walk across the street together.” Start with the sign for “walk” and then transition to the two-handed sign for “across.” Moving both hands simultaneously while crossing them illustrates the idea of crossing the street together.

Informal Ways to Say “Across” in Sign Language:

In more casual or informal settings, sign language users may adopt slightly different signs to convey the same meaning. Here are two commonly used informal signs for “across”:

1. Open-Palm Cross:

An informal sign for “across” involves a simple open-palm cross movement. Begin by extending your non-dominant hand in front of you, palm facing upward. Place the thumb edge of your dominant hand on the palm of the other hand and move it across the surface in a horizontal motion.

Example: If you want to say, “I saw a beautiful rainbow across the sky,” start with the sign for “rainbow” and then use the open-palm cross to signify the rainbow extending across the sky. The horizontal movement with the dominant hand represents the concept of “across.”

2. Index Finger Swipe:

Another informal sign for “across” involves using an index finger swipe across the opposite palm. Begin with your non-dominant hand stretched out in front of you, palm up. Using your dominant hand’s index finger, swipe across the palm of the other hand in a horizontal motion.

Example: Let’s say you want to sign, “There’s a long line of trees across the entire field.” Start by signing “trees” and then use the index finger swipe motion across the opposite palm to indicate the line of trees stretching across the field.

Additional Tips and Examples:

Here are some additional tips and examples to help you better understand and apply the signs for “across” in sign language:

Tips:

• Always ensure your hand movements are clear and precise.
• Practice fluidity in your signing, especially when expressing the concept of movement across a space.
• Observe native sign language users and seek guidance from sign language instructors or Deaf community members.

Examples:

• “She swam across the lake effortlessly.”
• “The bus goes across the bridge every day.”
• “We hiked across the vast mountain range.”
• “He threw the ball across the yard to his dog.”