Rebecca Tania
Learning American Sign Language (ASL) opens up a whole new world of communication for both the deaf and the hearing communities. Having a strong ASL vocabulary is essential to effectively express oneself and understand others. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “had” in ASL, including both formal and informal variations. Although regional variations exist, we will focus on the commonly used signs. Whether you are a beginner or someone looking to expand your ASL skills, this guide will provide you with useful tips, examples, and resources.
Formal Ways to Say “Had” in ASL
Formality in ASL can vary depending on the context and the relationship between the signer and the recipient. Here are some formal ways to express the concept of “had” in ASL:
- Verb: Possess
The sign for “possess” is frequently used to convey the sense of having or owning something in a formal manner. This sign involves using both hands, with one hand representing the object possessed and the other hand indicating ownership.
For example, if you wanted to say, “He had a car,” in ASL, you would sign “HE CAR POSSESS.”
Verb: Hold
An alternative formal sign for “had” is the sign for “hold”. This sign mimics the concept of physically having something in your hands.
For instance, to say, “She had a book,” you would sign “SHE BOOK HOLD.”
Informal Ways to Say “Had” in ASL
Informal or colloquial signs are used in more casual settings or among friends and family. These signs are often adapted to reflect a simplified version of the concept. Here are a couple of examples of informal ways to express “had” in ASL:
- Verb: Got/Get
The sign for “got” or “get” can be used to indicate having or acquiring something in an informal context. This sign involves making a grabbing motion with one hand towards yourself to convey the concept of receiving or obtaining something.
For example, if you want to say, “They had a new house,” in an informal manner, you would sign “THEY HOUSE GET.”
Verb: Have
A more versatile and commonly used informal sign for “had” is the sign for “have”. This sign involves extending your open hand outwards as if offering or showing something to someone, indicating possession or having something.
For instance, to say, “We had fun,” in an informal way, you would sign “WE FUN HAVE.”
Regional Variations
Please note that ASL can have regional variations, resulting in different signs being used to express the concept of “had” in various parts of the country. It is always beneficial to learn from local ASL resources, attend ASL classes, or engage with members of the deaf community to develop a broader understanding of these variations.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips to enhance your ASL skills:
- Practice regularly to improve your signing fluency.
- Watch ASL videos and engage with online communities to gain exposure to different signing styles and accents.
- Use facial expressions and body language to convey meaning effectively.
- Take advantage of available ASL dictionaries and resources to expand your vocabulary.
Remember, learning a new language takes time and dedication. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the process of acquiring a valuable skill that allows you to connect with the deaf community in a meaningful way.
By incorporating the signs and tips provided in this guide, you will be well on your way to mastering the concept of “had” in ASL. Happy signing!
