When communicating in American Sign Language (ASL), it’s important to have a good grasp of how to express different concepts, including the word “after.” In this guide, we will discuss the formal and informal ways of saying “after” in ASL, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. Whether you are a beginner or looking to expand your ASL vocabulary, this guide will help you master the concept of “after.”
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Formal Way to Say “After” in ASL
The formal way to express “after” in ASL is by using the sign for “LATER.” Below is a step-by-step description of how to sign “LATER” in ASL:
- Start with both of your hands open, palms facing inwards, and fingers extended.
- Bring your dominant hand closer to your non-dominant hand, moving from left to right in a smooth motion.
- End with your non-dominant hand slightly extended and your dominant hand resting on top of it.
This sign for “LATER” can be used to convey the concept of “after” in a formal setting, such as during a business meeting or a formal ASL conversation.
Informal Ways to Say “After” in ASL
Informal ways of expressing “after” in ASL can vary depending on the context or individual preferences. Here are a few common informal signs used to convey the concept of “after” in ASL:
- “AFTERNOON”: Tap the back of your non-dominant hand with the index finger of your dominant hand.
- “LATER ON”: Extend both of your hands in front of you, palms facing down, and bounce them up and down.
While these informal signs for “after” may not be as widely recognized in formal ASL settings, they are commonly used in casual conversations or between friends.
Tips for Using “After” in ASL
When signing “after” in ASL, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Facial Expressions: Use appropriate facial expressions to convey the intended meaning behind the concept of “after.” For example, if you want to express excitement for something happening “after,” you can use a smile or raised eyebrows.
- Timing: Pay attention to the timing of your signs to ensure clarity and understanding. It’s important to have a smooth transition from one sign to another, particularly when using the sign for “LATER.”
- Context: Consider the context of the conversation when using the concept of “after.” Depending on the situation, you might need additional signs or gestures to provide more specific information about what will happen “after” something else.
Examples of Using “After” in ASL
To better understand how to incorporate “after” in ASL, here are a few examples:
Example 1:
Person A: “I’ll see you later!”
Person B: “Okay, after lunch sounds good!”
In this example, Person B uses the sign for “AFTERNOON” to express the concept of “after” lunch, emphasizing the time frame following the meal.
Example 2:
Teacher: “We’ll have a quiz before the break.”
Student: “Alright, but can we go over the answers after?”
Here, the student signals the concept of “after” using the sign for “LATER ON,” indicating a desire to review the quiz answers following the break.
Regional Variations in “After” Signs
While ASL is largely standardized across the United States, regional variations can exist. However, when it comes to the sign for “after,” there are no significant regional variations that need to be considered for effective communication.
In Conclusion
Mastering the concept of “after” in ASL involves understanding the formal and informal ways to express it. The formal sign for “LATER” is commonly used in formal settings, while informal signs such as “AFTERNOON” or “LATER ON” can be used in casual conversations. Remember to consider facial expressions, timing, and context when incorporating “after” into your ASL conversations. With practice and exposure to more examples, you’ll become more confident in expressing the concept of “after” in ASL.
