Sign language is a beautiful and expressive way of communication for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. If you’re interested in learning how to say “good morning” in sign language, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways. While there might be regional variations, we will focus on the widely used signs. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Good Morning
When using sign language in a formal setting, it’s important to show respect and use more traditional signs. Here are a few formal ways to say “good morning” in sign language:
1. ASL (American Sign Language)
In American Sign Language, the formal way to say “good morning” is by signing:
M – Starting with your dominant hand in a fist, extend your thumb forward and place it against your lips.
O – Keeping your thumb extended, move your hand away from your lips and shape it into the letter “O”.
R – While keeping the “O” shape, twist your hand in a small circular motion twice in front of your chest.
N – After the circular motion, straighten your fingers out while keeping your thumb extended.
I – Finally, point your index finger upwards.
Note: In ASL, the fingerspelling for “good” and the sign for “morning” can also be used as an alternative.
2. BSL (British Sign Language)
In British Sign Language, the formal way to say “good morning” is by using the sign for “morning” combined with a polite gesture. Here’s how:
Morning – Extend your dominant hand with your palm facing up in front of you, then flatten your hand and move it slightly downwards.
Gentle Nod – Slightly nod your head forward while maintaining eye contact.
Using this combination of sign and gesture conveys politeness when saying “good morning” in BSL.
Informal Ways to Say Good Morning
When communicating in a more casual setting or with friends and family, you might want to use a more relaxed and informal way to say “good morning” in sign language. Below are a few examples:
1. ASL Informal
In American Sign Language, you can express a more casual “good morning” by combining signs differently and adding a touch of informality to your facial expressions:
O – Starting with your dominant hand in a fist, extend your thumb forward and place it against the side of your chin instead of your lips.
M – With a gentle smile, bring your hand down from your chin and shape it into the letter “M” while extending your fingers.
O – Move your hand from the “M” shape into the letter “O” while keeping a relaxed facial expression.
R – Twist your hand in a small circular motion twice in front of your chest, similarly to the formal ASL sign.
N – Straighten your fingers out while keeping your thumb extended, as in the formal sign.
I – Point your index finger upwards as the final touch, with a slight wink or nod to convey informality.
2. BSL Informal
British Sign Language also has an informal way to say “good morning” using a more relaxed sign:
Morning – Perform the same sign as in the formal version but with a more casual and relaxed movement.
Chin Nod – Instead of the gentle nod, slightly lift your chin up while making direct eye contact, giving a friendly vibe.
Remember, when using an informal sign, it’s essential to be aware of the context and relationship you have with the person you are communicating with.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “good morning” in sign language can be a meaningful and inclusive way to communicate. Whether you prefer a more formal or informal approach, practicing these signs will not only show your respect and friendliness but also help you build stronger connections with individuals who communicate using sign language.
Tip: Just like with spoken languages, sign language may have variations depending on regional dialects. If you’re specifically interested in learning a regional variation, reach out to local sign language communities or organizations to ensure you are using the appropriate signs for your target audience.
