In American Sign Language (ASL), the word “are” is commonly used to indicate the plural form of “am” or “is.” Understanding how to effectively convey “are” in ASL is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we will explore both the formal and informal ways of expressing “are,” providing tips, examples, and addressing regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways of Saying ‘Are’ in ASL
When using ASL in formal settings or situations, the most appropriate way to convey “are” is through finger spelling. Finger spelling is a technique where each letter of a word is signed manually. To express “are” formally, spell out the letters A-R-E using your fingers:
Finger Spell:
Hold up your dominant hand, palm facing forward, and touch your thumb to your pinky finger forming the letter A. Then open your hand, keeping your palm facing up, with your fingers slightly spread to form the letter R. Next, touch the tip of your index finger on your chest close to the collarbone to represent the letter E.
Remember to enunciate each letter clearly and provide enough space between them to ensure accurate comprehension.
Informal Ways of Saying ‘Are’ in ASL
In casual and informal situations, ASL users often rely on non-manual signals and facial expressions to convey “are.” These informal variations of expressing “are” add emphasis and tone to the overall message being signed. Here are some common ways to express “are” informally:
- Head Nod:
While signing the sentence, use a slight upward head nod to indicate “are.” The nod should be subtle but noticeable and should coordinate with the rest of the signing, ensuring clarity and good flow. - Brows Raised:
Raise both eyebrows slightly during the appropriate part of the sentence to indicate “are.” This non-manual signal helps convey the plural form without relying on finger spelling or explicit signs. - Shoulder Shrug:
A slight upward shrug or lift of the shoulders during signing can indicate “are” informally. This non-manual signal can be used in combination with other signs to reinforce the meaning of “are.”
By incorporating these informal elements into your signing, you can add nuance and emphasis to your communication, making it more engaging and expressive.
Regional Variations
While ASL is a standardized language used across the United States, there may be slight regional variations in how “are” is expressed informally. These variations often arise from cultural and linguistic differences among ASL users in specific regions. It is important to note that these differences are minimal and do not hinder overall understanding. Here are a few examples of regional variations in informal expressions of “are”:
Regional Variation 1:
In some regions, a quick tilt of the head to the side is used instead of a head nod to indicate “are.”
Regional Variation 2:
In certain areas, a subtle lowering of the brows instead of raising them is used to indicate “are.”
Regional Variation 3:
In a few specific communities, a slight forward movement of the torso accompanies the shoulder shrug to emphasize the meaning of “are.”
It is worth mentioning that these regional variations primarily occur in informal contexts and are not commonly seen in formal or professional settings.
Tips for Effective Signing
Here are some additional tips to enhance your ability to convey “are” in ASL:
- Practice: Regularly practice finger spelling the word “are” to ensure you can confidently and accurately convey it in formal situations.
- Observe Native ASL Users: Watch videos of proficient ASL users to familiarize yourself with various signing styles, non-manual signals, and facial expressions used to express “are” informally.
- Context Matters: Consider the context and the intended meaning of your sentence to determine whether you should use the formal or informal way of conveying “are” in a specific conversation or situation.
- Maintain Eye Contact: When signing, maintain eye contact with the person you are communicating with to establish a connection and ensure effective communication.
Remember, effective communication in ASL goes beyond simply conveying words; it involves using facial expressions, non-manual signals, and appropriate signing techniques to convey meaning accurately.
In conclusion, expressing “are” in ASL can be achieved through various formal and informal methods. Finger spelling is the most formal way to convey “are,” while informal techniques include head nods, raised brows, and shoulder shrugs. Regional variations exist but are minimal and primarily seen in informal contexts. By incorporating tips, practicing regularly, and being mindful of context, you can confidently express “are” in ASL, enriching your conversations and interactions within the Deaf community.
