When it comes to American Sign Language (ASL), expressing the concept of “great” can vary based on the context, formality, and regional variations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to say “great” in ASL, covering both formal and informal ways. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Great” in ASL
Formal ASL includes vocabulary and signs that are used in professional settings, educational environments, or any formal situation. Here are some formal ways to express “great” in ASL:
1. “Excellent”: In formal ASL, the sign for “excellent” is commonly used to convey “great.” To sign “excellent” in ASL, start with both hands open, palms facing up, and then move both hands forward with a slight upward motion, ending with your palms facing down. This sign signifies something being “excellent,” which can also convey the meaning of “great.”
Informal Ways to Say “Great” in ASL
Informal ASL is commonly used among friends, family, and in casual settings. Here are some informal ways to express “great” in ASL:
1. “Awesome”: To sign “awesome” in ASL informally, form both hands into a loose fist. Extend both thumbs up and move your hands slightly away from your body, mimicking an explosion or bursting motion. This sign is often associated with enthusiasm and excitement, conveying the meaning of “great” in an informal context.
2. “Cool”: To sign “cool” informally in ASL, extend your dominant hand’s index and middle fingers while the other fingers are bent. Touch your temple with your fingertips and then bring your hand forward, away from your face with a slight wave motion. This sign represents something being “cool” or “great” in an informal manner.
Regional Variations
ASL has some regional variations that may affect the way “great” is expressed. While the signs mentioned above are widely understood across ASL users, it’s worth noting any regional differences. Here, we explore some examples of regional variations in expressing “great” in ASL:
1. Northern vs. Southern Regional Variation: In some regions, such as the northern parts of the United States, the sign for “great” may involve an upward motion of both hands from the waist level with palms facing inwards. On the other hand, in southern regions, the sign for “great” may involve a thumb-up motion near the mouth. It’s important to adapt and learn regional variations if you are in a specific area.
Tips for Expressing “Great” in ASL
Here are some helpful tips for accurately conveying “great” in ASL:
- Use Facial Expressions: Facial expressions play a significant role in ASL. When signing “great,” maintain a positive facial expression to enhance the meaning conveyed by the sign.
- Consider Context: The meaning of “great” can vary based on the context. Consider the situation and adjust your sign accordingly, whether it’s a formal or informal setting.
- Practice Signing with Fluent ASL Users: To improve your ASL skills, practice signing with fluent ASL users. They can provide valuable feedback, suggest regional variations, and help refine your signing.
Examples of Using “Great” in ASL
To further illustrate how to express “great” in ASL, here are a few example sentences:
“I had a great time at the party!”
“This is a great opportunity for your career.”
“Your presentation was excellent! Great job!”
Remember, signing “great” in ASL is not limited to only one sign, so feel free to adapt and explore different signs to convey the intended meaning. Always strive to communicate using the signs that are widely understood and accepted in the ASL community.
Now that you have a better understanding of how to say “great” in ASL, use this knowledge to enhance your ASL conversations and share your positive experiences with others. Enjoy signing!
