How to Say Goodbye in ASL: Formal and Informal Ways, Tips, and Examples

Saying goodbye in American Sign Language (ASL) allows for both formal and informal expressions. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various ways to bid farewell in ASL, including formal and informal variations. While regional variations are limited in ASL, we will take into account any crucial differences. Read on to discover tips and examples that will help you express goodbye in ASL with confidence.

Formal Ways to Say Goodbye in ASL

When it comes to formal situations, such as meetings, interviews, or business gatherings, it’s important to use appropriate sign language expressions. Here are some formal ways to say goodbye in ASL:

1. Farewell: To sign “farewell” in ASL, extend your dominant hand, palm facing outward. Begin with your hand near your mouth and move it away from your face, lowering it slightly in a graceful motion. This sign shows respect and is commonly used in formal settings.
2. Take care: To sign “take care,” place your open dominant hand in front of your body, palm facing upward. Use your other hand to make a scooping motion towards your open hand, as if you are gently gathering something into your palm. This sign conveys a sense of well-wishing and concern for the other person’s welfare.
3. Until we meet again: This phrase is commonly used to express a formal goodbye. To sign “until we meet again,” extend your dominant hand with palm facing down, fingers pointing forward. Move your hand forward and up in a sweeping motion, as if you are tracing an arc in the air. This sign signifies a future reunion or encounter.
4. Thank you: Although not a strictly goodbye sign, expressing gratitude is customary in formal situations. To sign “thank you,” bring your open hand to your mouth, then move it forward and downward. This sign represents gratitude and appreciation.

Informal Ways to Say Goodbye in ASL

Informal settings, such as casual conversations with friends or family, allow for more relaxed and informal expressions of farewell. Here are some examples of informal ways to say goodbye in ASL:

1. Bye: For a simple and casual goodbye, raise your open hand and move it back and forth in a wave motion. This sign is widely recognized and used.
2. See you later: To sign “see you later,” hold up your hand with the palm facing you. Then, bring it to your forehead, and move it forward in a straight line. This sign implies a future meeting or reunion.
3. Take it easy: This informal goodbye reflects a laid-back and casual sentiment. To sign “take it easy,” create a V-shape with both of your hands, palms facing you, and move them downward in a relaxed manner.
4. Have a good day: To wish someone a good day in an informal situation, extend your open hand with the palm facing up and fingers slightly curled. Move your hand forward with a gentle shaking motion. This sign conveys warm wishes for a positive day.

Tips for Saying Goodbye in ASL

While learning how to say goodbye in ASL, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Facial expressions: Facial expressions play a vital role in ASL as they convey emotions. Maintain a warm and friendly expression while signing goodbye to show your sincerity.
2. Eye contact: Maintain eye contact with the person you are saying goodbye to. It demonstrates respect and helps establish a personal connection.
3. Body language: Pay attention to your body language while signing goodbye. Stand or sit up straight, and maintain an open and relaxed posture. Use gentle and fluid movements to express your farewell.
4. Practice: Regular practice is essential for mastering ASL signs. Repeatedly practicing the signs for goodbye will build your muscle memory and improve your fluency.

“When bidding farewell in ASL, it’s important to use appropriate facial expressions, maintain eye contact, and convey warmth through your body language. Practice regularly to improve your fluency and confidence.”

Remember, ASL is a visual language, so ensuring proper facial expressions, eye contact, and body language are crucial elements of effective communication.

By understanding the formal and informal ways to say goodbye in ASL and following these tips, you can confidently bid farewell in various situations. Practice regularly, be attentive to facial expressions and body language, and engage in meaningful eye contact to enhance your ASL communication skills. Start incorporating these ASL signs into your daily life, and you’ll be equipped to express goodbye with kindness and respect.