American Sign Language (ASL) is a rich and expressive visual language used by the Deaf community in the United States. If you’re dining out with someone who uses ASL, knowing how to say “check, please” can be a helpful way to end a meal. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways to express this phrase in ASL, as well as provide tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. Let’s begin!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Check, Please” in ASL
In formal situations, it’s important to use polite and respectful signs. To ask for the check politely, follow these steps:
- Start by making sure you have your server’s attention. Raise your hand gently and establish eye contact.
- Begin signing “excuse me” by touching your hand to your chest and sliding it forward a short distance. This sign indicates that you want to attract someone’s attention.
- Next, make the sign for “bill” or “check.” Extend your non-dominant hand flat and slightly cupped. Use your dominant hand to mimic flipping through a bill or check with your index and middle finger.
- Finally, sign “please” by taking your flat, open hand and moving it in a circular motion on your chest, making sure your palm faces downward. This sign shows politeness and respect.
Remember to thank your server once you receive the check. You can sign “thank you” by bending your fingers slightly, touching them to your lips, and then moving your hand outward and slightly forward.
Informal Way to Say “Check, Please” in ASL
When in a relaxed or informal setting, you may choose to use a more casual sign for “check, please.” Here’s how:
- Catch your server’s attention by waving your hand slightly. Make sure they see you before proceeding.
- Begin signing “bill” or “check” by forming both hands into the letter “C,” with your palms facing upward. Use your dominant hand to pat your non-dominant hand twice.
- To indicate “please,” place your open hand, palm-down, near your chest. Move it outwards, in a small circular motion.
Unlike in formal situations, using the informal sign does not require an additional “thank you” sign. However, it is always courteous to thank your server verbally or with a smile.
Tips and Examples
Here are some general tips and examples to keep in mind when using ASL to say “check, please”:
- Maintain eye contact: It is important to establish and maintain eye contact with your server while signing. This ensures clear communication and respect.
- Be patient: ASL, like any language, takes practice and familiarity. Don’t be discouraged if you make mistakes or if your signs are not immediately understood. Stay patient and keep trying.
- Practice fingerspelling: If you are unsure of a specific sign, you can use fingerspelling to spell out the word “check” followed by the sign for “please.” It’s always good to expand your vocabulary.
Example: After enjoying a delicious meal, you could sign “Excuse me, bill please” or use the informal sign for “check” followed by “please.” Remember to be polite while requesting the check by signing “please.”
Understanding ASL regional variations:
ASL may have some regional variations in different areas of the country. While the signs for “check, please” mentioned above are widely understood in many communities, it is always beneficial to learn and adapt to local sign variations when possible. Local Deaf communities or online resources specific to your area can provide more insight into any regional differences in sign language.
In conclusion, having the ability to confidently communicate “check, please” in ASL is a valuable skill. Whether you use a formal or informal sign, remember to be respectful and appreciative towards your server. By learning and using ASL signs, we can foster inclusivity and bridge communication gaps. Enjoy your meals and happy signing!
