When communicating using American Sign Language (ASL), it is important to learn how to express various concepts accurately. In this guide, we will explore different ways to convey the meaning of “broken” in ASL. We’ll cover both formal and informal signs, providing tips, examples, and addressing regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Broken in ASL
Formal signs are commonly used in professional settings and official ASL interactions. Here are a few formal ways to express the concept of “broken” in ASL:
- Sign: One-handed “B” handshape tapping the palm of the opposite hand
Tips: Make sure to tap your palm with clear and deliberate movements to emphasize the meaning. Keep your fingers together while signing the “B” handshape to maintain clarity. - Sign: Open “B” handshape held at chest level with a slight twist forward
Tips: The twisting motion represents the idea of something being broken or damaged. Keep the movement controlled and consistent to ensure proper understanding. - Sign: Pantomime breaking a stick or object with both hands
Tips: Use your facial expressions and body language to enhance the meaning. The act of breaking the object should be clear and easily recognizable to the viewer.
Informal Ways to Say Broken in ASL
Informal signs are commonly used in everyday conversations and interactions. Here are a few informal ways to express the concept of “broken” in ASL:
- Sign: Flex your dominant hand’s index and middle fingers multiple times
Tips: This informal sign mimics the motion of a broken object wiggling or moving unnaturally. It is commonly used in informal conversations and understood throughout many ASL communities. - Sign: Hold one hand palm-up, fingers slightly apart, and tap it with the index finger of the other hand
Tips: The tapping motion represents the idea of something being broken or damaged. Keep the movements clear, but more relaxed, to match the informal nature of this sign. - Sign: Pantomime breaking by using one hand as the broken part and the other hand as the impacting force
Tips: Use your facial expressions and exaggerated movements to convey the idea effectively. This informal sign embraces a more playful approach to expressing “broken.”
Regional Variations
While ASL has its core signs, there may be some regional variations in certain signs, including “broken.” These variations can emerge due to cultural influences or local slang. However, the signs mentioned above are widely understood and used across ASL communities. It is always beneficial to familiarize yourself with the local dialect when communicating with specific regions.
Examples
In an everyday conversation:
Person A: My phone screen cracked!
Person B: Oh no! Do you know how it happened?
Person B uses the informal sign for “broken” by flexing their index and middle fingers to acknowledge the cracked phone screen.
In a formal setting:
Presenter: The contract has been broken by the other party.
Audience: Gasps and concerned looks.
The presenter uses one of the formal signs to convey the severity of the contract being broken, and the audience reacts accordingly.
In summary, to express “broken” in ASL, you can utilize formal or informal signs, depending on the context. The signs mentioned in this guide provide a strong foundation for communication. Remember, sign language is a visual and expressive language, so make sure to use clear gestures, facial expressions, and body language to enhance your messages. While regional variations may exist, the signs covered here are widely applicable and understood in ASL communities.
