How to Say Eye Glasses in ASL: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “eye glasses” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you want to learn the formal or informal way to express this term, we’ve got you covered. While regional variations exist within ASL, we will mainly focus on the commonly used signs. Here, you will find helpful tips, examples, and everything you need to know about expressing “eye glasses” in ASL.

Formal Way to Say Eye Glasses in ASL

When it comes to formal signing, it’s important to use the appropriate signs and convey clarity in your message. In ASL, the formal way to say “eye glasses” involves combining signs for “eye” and “glasses” in a distinct manner. Here’s how:

Sign for Eye:

To sign “eye,” form both hands into fists with your index fingers extended and pointing forward. Then, touch your index fingers to the sides of your eyes, gently tapping twice. This sign represents the concept of “eye” in ASL.

Sign for Glasses:

The sign for “glasses” in ASL is often represented by using an open hand. Place your non-dominant hand, palm facing up, slightly in front of your face. With your dominant hand, form the letter “C” handshape with your thumb and index finger, and gently rest it on the palm of your open hand. This sign signifies wearing glasses.

Combining the Signs:

To say “eye glasses” formally in ASL, combine the sign for “eye” and the sign for “glasses.” Hold your non-dominant, open hand in place as if it’s the palm of your dominant hand. Using the “eye” sign, tap your index fingers against the sides of your non-dominant hand, twice, while keeping your dominant hand’s “C” handshape on the non-dominant hand’s palm. This combination conveys the concept of wearing glasses on your eyes.

Informal Way to Say Eye Glasses in ASL

In informal situations, ASL users sometimes rely on a simplified version of the signs to express “eye glasses.” Remember, this variation may vary depending on the region, so pay attention to context and regional differences when using the informal way.

Informal Eye Sign:

To express “eye” informally, simply point to one of your eyes using your index finger. This gesture is often enough to convey the concept of an “eye” in friendly and casual conversations.

Informal Glasses Sign:

The informal version of “glasses” in ASL is conveyed by using both open hands. With your palms facing each other and your fingers extended, touch the sides of your face near your temples, making a small and gentle sweeping motion away from your face. This sign signifies wearing glasses less formally.

Combining the Informal Signs:

In an informal context, to say “eye glasses” in ASL, you can combine the informal signs for “eye” and “glasses.” Begin by pointing to one of your eyes with your index finger, representing “eye.” Then, sweep both hands from the sides of your face near your temples, indicating “glasses.” The combination of these informal signs conveys the concept of wearing glasses on your eyes in a more relaxed manner.

Tips and Examples

Here are some helpful tips and examples to assist you in using the proper signs for “eye glasses” in ASL:

1. Maintain Eye Contact:

When signing “eye glasses,” it’s essential to maintain eye contact with the person you are communicating with. This connection ensures proper understanding and respect during the conversation.

2. Adjust Signing Space:

Remember to adjust the signing space depending on the situation and the number of people involved. Ensure that your gestures are easily visible to everyone participating in the conversation, allowing clear understanding of the signs for “eye glasses.”

3. Use Facial Expressions:

Facial expressions play a crucial role in ASL. Utilize appropriate facial expressions to convey the meaning and context of your signs for “eye glasses.” A warm and engaging expression fosters effective communication.

Example Conversation:

Person 1: Do you have any recommendations for stylish eye glasses?

Person 2: Yes, I found a great pair recently! Check out these new trendy frames.

Person 3 (ASL User): (Using formal ASL) The sign for “eye glasses” looks like this. (Demonstrates the formal “eye glasses” sign.)

Person 1: Thank you! That’s fascinating!

In this example, as Person 3 explains the formal “eye glasses” sign in ASL, they visually demonstrate the sign, allowing Person 1 to clearly understand the concept while fostering inclusion and understanding.

4. Practice and Seek Feedback:

Like any language, ASL requires practice. Regularly practice signing “eye glasses” in ASL to enhance your proficiency. Seek feedback from fluent ASL signers to refine your technique and ensure accuracy.

5. Context Matters:

Remember that context influences the signs used. Adapt your signing style based on the formality of the situation, the people involved, and the region you are in. Familiarize yourself with regional variations, if relevant, to avoid misunderstandings.

6. Be Respectful:

In any communication, it is vital to be respectful. Treat ASL as the unique and beautiful language it is, and always prioritize open-mindedness, understanding, and empathy.