Learning how to say “girlfriend” in sign language can be a meaningful and beautiful way to communicate with someone dear to your heart. Whether you’re in a romantic relationship, have a close friend who is deaf or hard of hearing, or you simply have an interest in learning sign language, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to express “girlfriend” in sign language. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Way to Say Girlfriend in Sign Language
The formal way to say “girlfriend” in sign language follows the standardized sign language conventions and is universally accepted across different sign language systems. In American Sign Language (ASL), which is widely used in North America, you can sign “girlfriend” by combining the signs for “girl” and “friend.”
To sign “girlfriend” in ASL, follow these steps:
- Start by extending your dominant hand in the “G” handshape, which involves curling your middle three fingers toward your palm while keeping your index finger and thumb extended in an L-shape.
- Hold your dominant hand near your temple and tap your head gently with your fingertips to sign “girl.”
- Next, extend your non-dominant hand in a “K” handshape, which involves curling your middle, ring, and pinky fingers toward your palm while keeping your index finger and thumb extended.
- Hold your non-dominant hand flat, palm facing down, in front of your body, and tap your dominant hand’s fingertips to the palm of your non-dominant hand to sign “friend.”
- Combine the signs for “girl” and “friend” by performing the “girl” sign first and then the “friend” sign in succession to signify “girlfriend” in ASL.
It’s important to remember that sign languages can vary by region, so the signs used to say “girlfriend” may differ slightly depending on where you are. However, the formal way described above is generally understood and used in many sign language communities.
Informal Ways to Say Girlfriend in Sign Language
Informal or colloquial signs in sign language can vary widely among communities and may not conform to standardized sign language conventions. These signs often develop naturally within specific groups or regions. While they may not be universally recognized, they can be useful for casual communication among individuals who share a common understanding of the sign. Here are a few examples of informal signs used to say “girlfriend” in various informal sign languages:
“Heart” Sign: Some individuals use the sign for “heart” by forming both hands into the ASL “I Love You” sign (extending your thumb, index finger, and pinky finger) and crossing them over your chest near your heart.
“Double Click”: Another informal sign involves extending both of your index fingers, bringing them close together, and quickly tapping them twice in a playful and flirtatious gesture.
Sign Variations by Region
While the formal way to say “girlfriend” described earlier is widely understood, there can be regional variations in sign languages. Here are a few examples of sign variations for “girlfriend” across different sign language systems:
- British Sign Language (BSL): In BSL, the sign for “girlfriend” involves placing both open hands in front of you, with the fingertips touching, and moving them in a small, circular motion.
- Australian Sign Language (Auslan): In Auslan, the sign for “girlfriend” combines the signs for “woman” and “friend” by extending your index and middle fingers, touching them together in front of you, and circling them slowly.
- French Sign Language (LSF): LSF uses a combination of the signs for “woman” and “friend” to represent “girlfriend.” It involves extending your index and middle fingers, touching them together in front of you, and moving them in a circular motion.
Remember that these variations are not exhaustive, as sign language can differ even within countries or regions. It’s always helpful to consult with local sign language resources or members of the deaf community to learn about specific regional sign variations.
Learning how to say “girlfriend” in sign language not only opens doors to improved communication but also displays a genuine effort to connect with individuals using sign language. Practice these signs regularly, seek feedback from the deaf community, and embrace the beauty of sign language as you deepen your relationships. Happy signing!
