ASL (American Sign Language) is a beautiful and expressive language used by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in the United States. It is essential to learn and understand common words to effectively communicate with individuals using ASL. In this guide, we will explore how to express the word “anxiety” in ASL. We will cover both formal and informal ways, focusing on universal signs while briefly mentioning regional variations.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say Anxiety in ASL
When expressing “anxiety” formally in ASL, you can utilize the following sign:
Keep in mind that signs in ASL are not necessarily accompanied by spoken words. Therefore, the sign itself embodies the concept of anxiety.
Informal Ways to Say Anxiety in ASL
There are various informal ways to express “anxiety” in ASL. Here are some commonly used signs:
1. “Nervous” Sign
The sign for “nervous” can be used as an informal way to convey the sense of anxiety. It involves:
2. “Worry” Sign
Another sign commonly used to express anxiety informally is the “worry” sign. It involves:
Remember, informal signs may have different levels of acceptance and usage depending on regional variations within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Always be open to learning different signs specific to the community you are interacting with.
Examples of Usage
Here are a few example sentences demonstrating the usage of the signs mentioned above:
- Example 1: Today, I have to present in front of a large audience, and it’s making me feel anxious.
- ASL Translation 1: (Formal) Touch fingertips together, open hands while trembling, move hands upward.
- ASL Translation 2: (Informal) Shake both hands back and forth rapidly.
- Example 2: My upcoming job interview is causing a lot of anxiety.
- ASL Translation 1: (Formal) Touch fingertips together, open hands while trembling, move hands upward.
- ASL Translation 2: (Informal) Move open hand in a circular motion over the chest.
Remember, fluency in ASL requires practice and exposure to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Interacting with native signers and taking ASL classes can greatly enhance your signing abilities.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask Deaf individuals for guidance or correction. They are usually very willing to assist and appreciate the effort to learn their language.
Regional Variations
While the signs mentioned above represent universal signs for “anxiety” in ASL, different regions may have slight variations or even specific local signs. It is always advisable to understand and respect the regional variations when interacting with ASL users in specific areas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how to express “anxiety” in ASL is essential for effective communication with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. We covered both formal and informal ways to convey this emotion, focusing on universal signs while acknowledging the existence of regional variations. Remember to always be respectful, open to learning, and practice regularly to improve your ASL skills. Happy signing!
