Learning American Sign Language (ASL) can be an enriching experience, allowing you to communicate with the Deaf community and bridge communication gaps. One important vocabulary word to know is “close.” Whether you want to ask someone if a store is nearby or converse about spatial proximity, being able to express “close” in ASL is essential. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey the concept of “close” in ASL, providing various tips and examples along the way.
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Formal Ways to Say “Close” in ASL
When communicating formally in ASL, it is important to use appropriate grammar and manners. Here are a few formal ASL signs for “close”:
1. Proximity Indicator
To express the concept of “close” in a general sense, you can use a proximity indicator. Point toward the object or location you want to refer to and then bring your hand closer to your body, as if indicating nearness. This gesture helps convey the notion of something being physically close.
2. Near
Another formal way to say “close” in ASL is by using the sign for “near.” Place the fingertips of one hand on the other palm, then move the hand inwards, towards your body. This sign is commonly used to describe something being in close proximity to a person or place.
Informal/Familiar Ways to Say “Close” in ASL
When conversing casually or with friends in ASL, there are several informal signs you can use to express “close.” These signs might not follow strict grammar rules but are commonly understood within informal contexts.
1. Short distance
To indicate something is close by or at a short distance, extend your non-dominant hand forward, palm facing up. Then use your dominant hand’s index finger to tap close to your palm a couple of times. This sign signifies a sense of proximity or nearness within a short distance.
2. Right here
If you want to convey something is close in a familiar manner, you can use the sign for “right here.” Bring both hands up and curl your fingers slightly, pointing towards yourself. Move your hands slightly towards your chest while keeping your fingers pointing towards you. This sign ensures you are expressing something is close with a friendly and colloquial touch.
Tips for ASL Learners
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind while learning and using sign language:
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your ASL skills. Set aside dedicated time each day to practice signing, whether through online resources, videos, or with a partner.
- Observe native signers: Watching proficient signers can help you improve your understanding of signs, facial expressions, and body language used in ASL. Attend local Deaf community events or watch videos featuring native signers.
- Seek feedback: Ask for feedback from more experienced signers or take classes to receive guidance on your signing skills. Feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your signing technique.
- Be patient: Learning any language takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t become fluent overnight. Patience and persistence are key to achieving your goals in mastering ASL.
“ASL is not just about learning signs, but also about understanding the rich culture and history of the Deaf community.”
Remember, learning ASL is more than just learning signs. It is a doorway to a vibrant community, with its own culture and history. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the Deaf community and appreciate the unique qualities of ASL.
Examples
To provide you with some practical examples, here are a few scenarios where you might want to use the sign for “close” in ASL:
Scenario 1:
Friend: “Is the supermarket close by?”
You: *Use the proximity indicator*, pointing towards the direction of the supermarket and bringing your hand closer to your body.
Scenario 2:
Friend: “How far is the train station?”
You: *Use the sign for “near”*, placing the fingertips of one hand on your other palm and moving your hand inwards towards your body, indicating proximity.
Scenario 3:
Friend: “Can you pass me the remote? It’s right here!”
You: *Use the sign for “right here”*, bringing both hands up, curling your fingers slightly, and pointing towards yourself. Move your hands slightly towards your chest while keeping your fingers pointing towards you.
Remember, practice and exposure to the language are key to becoming proficient in ASL. The more you immerse yourself in the deaf community and engage in conversations using ASL, the better you will become at expressing concepts like “close” and more complex ideas in sign language.
