When it comes to communicating about sensitive topics such as drugs in American Sign Language (ASL), it is important to approach the subject with respect and caution. ASL offers various ways to express the concept of drugs, depending on the context, formality, and regional variations. This comprehensive guide will assist you in understanding different ways to say drugs in ASL, both formally and informally. Let’s delve into the details.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Drugs in ASL
Formal ASL is commonly used in educational and professional settings. When discussing drugs formally in ASL, it is essential to use appropriate terminology and respect the sensitivity of the topic.
Note: Visual signs are often more impactful than gestures while discussing drugs in ASL, as they convey the intended meanings more clearly.
Vocabulary for Formal Situations
1. “DRUGS”: The sign for drugs in formal ASL involves raising both index fingers and moving them downwards alternately. This sign is commonly used when discussing the general concept of drugs.
2. “MEDICINE”: Sometimes, you might need to differentiate between drugs used for medicinal purposes versus recreational drugs. The sign for medicine is made by placing the thumb of one hand on the forearm of the other hand and then rotating the hand twice.
3. “PRESCRIPTION”: When specifically referring to drugs that require a prescription, the sign for prescription involves tapping your non-dominant hand with your dominant index finger or vice versa.
Example Dialogues
Dialogue 1:
Person 1: What is your opinion about drug abuse?
Person 2: I believe drugs can have severe consequences on individuals and society.
Person 1: I agree, drug abuse is a major problem in our society.
Dialogue 2:
Person 1: Are you taking any medication?
Person 2: Yes, I’m currently on prescription drugs for my allergies.
Person 1: It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage for better health.
Informal Ways to Say Drugs in ASL
Informal ASL is often used among friends, in casual conversations, or in social gatherings. While discussing drugs informally in ASL, the signs may be more colloquial and specific to regional variations.
Slang and Colloquial Signs
1. “DRUGS”: In informal ASL, the sign for drugs is often similar to the sign used in formal ASL. However, it might be exaggerated or made with more emphasis depending on the context.
2. “HIGH”: The sign for being high, which is commonly used to refer to the state of being under the influence of drugs, involves forming loose fists with both hands and raising them up slightly while smiling.
3. “POKE”: This informal sign refers to using drugs through injections. Make a fist with a slight extension of your thumb, and tap your arm with the side of your thumb twice.
Example Dialogues
Dialogue 1:
Person 1: Have you ever tried drugs?
Person 2: Yeah, I’ve experimented a little bit in the past, but I don’t do them anymore.
Person 1: It’s good that you’ve moved past that phase.
Dialogue 2:
Person 1: Did you party last night?
Person 2: Yeah, it was wild! Some people got really high, but I didn’t participate in that.
Person 1: It’s important to know your limits and make responsible choices.
Regional Variations
ASL has regional variations, including differences in signs for certain concepts, including drugs. However, for the term “drugs,” there are generally no significant regional variations in ASL. The formal and informal signs mentioned earlier are widely understood and used across different regions.
Conclusion
When discussing drugs in ASL, it is crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect, considering the context and formality of the conversation. The formal signs, such as “drugs,” “medicine,” and “prescription,” are widely accepted in formal settings. Informal signs, including “high” and “poke,” are used in more casual conversations. Remember that ASL relies heavily on visual communication and facial expressions, so understanding the context is vital to ensure accurate and appropriate communication. By using the signs mentioned in this guide, you will be able to express yourself effectively and respectfully when discussing drugs in ASL.
