Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “anymore” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you’re a beginner or an ASL enthusiast looking to expand your vocabulary, this guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways to convey the meaning of “anymore” in ASL. From tips and examples to regional variations, we’ve got you covered! So, let’s dive in and start learning!
Table of Contents
The Formal Way: Using ASL Signs
In ASL, the formal way to express the concept of “anymore” is by combining signs to convey the intended meaning. Here are a few ways you can accomplish this:
1. Combining NEGATIVE and NOW
One common way to express “anymore” in ASL is by combining the signs for “negative” and “now.” Here’s how you do it:
Sentence: I don’t eat meat anymore.
ASL Translation:
- Sign “I” (pointing to yourself)
- Sign “MEAT” (crossing your two fingers in front of your mouth)
- Sign “EAT” (bringing your fingers to your mouth)
- Sign “NEGATIVE” (shaking your head from side to side)
- Sign “NOW” (holding up your hand with palm facing forward)
Example:
“I don’t eat meat anymore.”
2. Combining NOT and AGAIN
Another formal way to convey “anymore” in ASL is by combining the signs for “not” and “again.” Let’s take a look at an example:
Sentence: I don’t play the piano anymore.
ASL Translation:
- Sign “I” (pointing to yourself)
- Sign “PIANO” (pretending to play a piano in front of you)
- Sign “PLAY” (moving your hands like you’re playing a piano)
- Sign “NOT” (shaking your head from side to side)
- Sign “AGAIN” (repeating the piano-playing motion)
Example:
“I don’t play the piano anymore.”
The Informal Way: Using Facial Expressions and Body Language
In addition to using ASL signs, you can also convey the concept of “anymore” in a more informal way using facial expressions and body language. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Shrugging Your Shoulders
One common way to express “anymore” informally in ASL is by shrugging your shoulders. It signifies the absence of a previously mentioned action or state. Let’s see it in action:
Sentence: I used to live in New York, but not anymore.
ASL Informal Translation:
- Sign “USED-TO” (showing with your hands something in the past)
- Shrug your shoulders and raise your eyebrows
- Sign “LIVE” (making a roof shape with your hands)
- Sign “NEW YORK” (spelling out N-E-W Y-O-R-K)
- Shrug your shoulders again, this time slightly more dramatically
Example:
“I used to live in New York, but not anymore.”
2. Using a Gesture of “Cutting Off”
Another informal way to convey “anymore” in ASL is by using a cutting-off gesture. This gesture visually demonstrates the discontinuation of an action or occurrence. Let’s explore an example:
Sentence: I don’t watch that TV show anymore.
ASL Informal Translation:
- Sign “I” (pointing to yourself)
- Sign “TV”
- Gesture as if you were cutting off an imaginary wire or rope using your hand or fingers
Example:
“I don’t watch that TV show anymore.”
Regional Variations
While ASL is widely used across the United States and Canada, it’s important to note that regional variations may exist in certain signs, including how “anymore” is conveyed. These variations can range from slight differences in handshapes to completely different signs. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local signing community and learn any variations they might use. This will help you communicate more effectively and understand the full range of ASL expressions.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned various ways to say “anymore” in ASL, both formally and informally. From combining signs to using facial expressions and body language, you can effectively convey the concept of “anymore” in ASL. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep practicing your signing skills and continue expanding your ASL vocabulary. Enjoy your journey in mastering this beautiful language!
