Natalie Kerry
American Sign Language (ASL) is a rich and vibrant language used by the Deaf community in the United States. As with any language, understanding how to express different concepts is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we will explore how to say “country” in ASL, providing formal and informal variations, along with some useful tips and examples.
Formal Ways to Say “Country” in ASL
When it comes to formal ASL, there are a few ways to convey the concept of “country.” Here are two commonly used signs that are widely accepted in formal settings:
- Sign 1: “COUNTRY”
- Gesture: Place your non-dominant arm horizontally in front of you, palm facing down. Starting with your dominant hand, make a curling motion over your non-dominant forearm, as if you were outlining a map.
- Usage: This sign is primarily used when referring to a specific country, such as “United States,” “France,” or “Japan.”
- Example: Suppose you want to sign “I love my country.” Start by signing “I” using the ASL sign for “I,” followed by the sign for “LOVE,” finally ending with the sign for “COUNTRY.”
- Sign 2: “COUNTRY”
- Gesture: Hold your dominant hand in front of you with palm slightly facing down. Then, with your thumb extended and fingertips touching your chin, drag your hand down your chest while keeping your fingers straight.
- Usage: This sign is generally used to convey the broader notion of a “country” or when describing the concept of “nationality.”
- Example: Imagine you want to sign “I am proud of my country.” Begin by signing “I AM” using the ASL sign for “I AM,” followed by the sign for “PROUD,” concluding with the sign for “COUNTRY.”
Informal Ways to Say “Country” in ASL
In informal settings or when engaging with the Deaf community, certain variations in ASL signs might be used to express the idea of “country.” Here are a couple of informal signs you may encounter:
- Informal Sign 1: “COUNTRY”
- Gesture: With the palm of your dominant hand facing downward, tap your chest near your shoulder with your fingertips twice.
- Usage: This sign is commonly used in everyday conversations among members of the Deaf community.
- Example: Suppose you want to sign “I miss my country.” First, sign “I MISS” using the ASL sign for “I MISS,” then articulate the sign for “COUNTRY.”
- Informal Sign 2: “COUNTRY”
- Gesture: While keeping your hand open, hold it in front of you with your palm tilted slightly inward. Proceed to move your hand in a small circular motion.
- Usage: This informal sign is often used to represent a general notion of “country.”
- Example: Let’s say you want to express “My country is beautiful.” Begin by signing “MY,” then sign “COUNTRY” using the informal variation, followed by the sign for “BEAUTIFUL.”
Tips for Using the Signs
To effectively convey the concept of “country” in ASL, it’s crucial to consider the following tips:
- Facial expressions: ASL relies heavily on facial expressions to convey the nuances of language. Ensure you use appropriate facial expressions while signing “country” to convey meaning accurately.
- Context: Consider the context in which you are signing “country.” Are you talking about a specific country, or do you mean the broader concept? Adjust your signing accordingly.
- Regional Variations: ASL signs can sometimes vary by region, so it’s essential to stay updated on local conventions when communicating with ASL users from different areas. Always defer to the preferences of the individuals you are signing with.
Conclusion
In summary, expressing the notion of “country” in ASL involves utilizing signs that are appropriate for different contexts. In formal settings, “country” can be signed by outlining a map or by dragging your hand down your chest. Informally, tapping your chest near your shoulder or making a circular hand motion can denote “country.” Remember to incorporate facial expressions and consider the context in which you are signing. Feel free to use these signs as building blocks to further expand your ASL vocabulary. Happy signing!
