Welcome to our comprehensive guide on learning how to say “get ready” in American Sign Language (ASL)! Whether you want to use it in a formal or an informal setting, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll also provide tips, examples, and insights into regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Get Ready” in ASL
When it comes to formal ASL, gestures and expressions play a significant role. To convey the phrase “get ready” in a formal setting, you can use the sign for “prepare.” Here’s how you can do it:
Sign: Place your non-dominant hand, palm facing up, in front of you. With your dominant hand, form an “S” handshape and move it forward over your non-dominant hand, like you are placing something on it.
Description: This sign represents the act of getting ready or preparing for something.
In a formal context, this sign for “prepare” is commonly used as a substitute for “get ready” in ASL.
Informal Way to Say “Get Ready” in ASL
For a more casual or informal setting, ASL offers a specific sign for “get ready.” Here’s how you can sign “get ready” informally:
Sign: Extend your non-dominant arm out with the palm facing down, near your hip. With your dominant hand, form a flat handshape (palm facing down) and move it upward from the hip to the shoulder.
Description: This sign represents the idea of getting ready in a casual or informal manner.
This informal sign uses a simple motion to represent the action of getting ready. It is commonly used among friends and in informal conversations.
Examples and Usage Tips
To better understand how to use these signs, let’s explore a few examples and usage tips:
Example 1:
Suppose you are getting ready for a party and want to express your excitement. You can use the formal sign for “prepare” to convey your message. Sign “prepare” with enthusiasm and add facial expressions to show your excitement.
Example 2:
If you are casually getting ready to go out with friends, use the informal sign for “get ready.” Sign it casually and supplement it with appropriate facial expressions and gestures to match the context.
Usage Tip 1:
When signing “get ready” informally, you can modify the sign to indicate the specific action you are getting ready for. For instance, if you are getting ready to drive, you can incorporate the sign for “drive” with the sign for “get ready.”
Usage Tip 2:
Remember to always maintain a warm and friendly tone when signing “get ready,” regardless of the setting. Facial expressions and body language enhance the message and help convey your emotions effectively.
Regional Variations
ASL has some regional variations, but they are not significant when it comes to expressing “get ready.” The signs discussed earlier are widely used across various regions and understood by ASL users throughout the United States. Remember to focus on the correct handshapes, movements, and expressions rather than being too concerned about minor regional differences.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned both the formal and informal ways to say “get ready” in ASL, you can confidently use them in the appropriate settings. Remember to practice your signs regularly and pay attention to facial expressions and body language to effectively convey your message. Whether it’s a formal or an informal context, mastering ASL allows you to communicate with the vibrant Deaf community and create meaningful connections.
