As a beginner or someone interested in American Sign Language (ASL), it is important to learn how to ask for clarification or repetition. Understanding how to say “Can you repeat that?” in ASL can be helpful in various social situations, whether you are communicating with a Deaf person, learning ASL, or simply wanting to expand your sign language skills. In this guide, we will provide you with both formal and informal ways to express this phrase in ASL, along with tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
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Formal Ways of Saying “Can You Repeat That?” in ASL
Formal signs in ASL rely on handshapes, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning. Here are a few formal ways to express “Can you repeat that?” in ASL:
- Sign: REPEAT
This is a common formal sign in ASL to ask for repetition. To sign “REPEAT,” hold both hands up, palms facing each other, fingers extended and slightly apart. Then, bring your hands toward your body and apart again in a repeated motion.
- Sign: AGAIN
The sign for “AGAIN” can also be used to ask someone to repeat what they said. To sign “AGAIN,” place both open hands in front of you, palms facing down. Then, move your hands upward and away from your body in a circular motion.
Informal Ways of Saying “Can You Repeat That?” in ASL
Informal signs in ASL often involve abbreviated or simplified gestures. Here are a few informal ways to express “Can you repeat that?” in ASL:
- Sign: REPEAT + Eyebrows raised
In a more casual setting, you can use the sign for “REPEAT” while simultaneously raising your eyebrows. This conveys a relaxed tone and indicates that you would like the person to say their statement again.
- Sign: SAME + EYEBROWS raised
Another informal way to ask for repetition is by signing “SAME” with raised eyebrows. To sign “SAME,” use both hands to gesture similarity. Adding raised eyebrows reinforces the request for repetition.
Tips and Examples for Asking for Repetition
When asking someone to repeat themselves in ASL, keep in mind the following tips:
- Eye contact: Maintain eye contact while making the sign to indicate that you are actively engaged in the conversation and awaiting a response.
- Facial expressions: Use appropriate facial expressions, such as raised eyebrows or a questioning look, to reinforce your request for repetition.
- Head nodding: Combine your sign with a slight nod of the head to show understanding or confirmation that you would like the person to repeat what they said.
Here are a few examples using the previously mentioned signs:
Example 1:
Person A: “I’m going to the movies.”
Person B: (Signing “REPEAT”)
Person A: “I’m going to the movies.”
Example 2:
Person A: “I’ll meet you at the park tomorrow.”
Person B: (Signing “AGAIN”)
Person A: “I’ll meet you at the park tomorrow.”
Example 3:
Person A: “I really liked that book.”
Person B: (Signing “REPEAT” with raised eyebrows)
Person A: “I really liked that book.”
Regional Variations
It’s important to note that sign languages can have regional variations, just as spoken languages do. While ASL is commonly used in the United States, there are variations in signs across different regions. However, the signs mentioned above for “Can you repeat that?” are widely understood and used in ASL throughout the country. If you are communicating with someone from a specific region, they may have localized variations in signs, but the general message should still be conveyed.
In conclusion, learning how to ask for repetition in ASL demonstrates your respect and interest in clear communication. Utilize the formal and informal signs mentioned above, and remember to involve eye contact, facial expressions, and other non-manual markers to enhance your communication. Practice these signs and phrases in different contexts to become more comfortable and proficient in ASL. With time and dedication, you can become fluent in this beautiful language and connect with the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community on a deeper level.
