Sign language is an effective means of communication used by the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Learning how to say “help please” in sign language can be incredibly valuable in various situations where you may need assistance urgently. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step breakdown of how to express “help please” both formally and informally, focusing on American Sign Language (ASL).
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Help Please” in ASL
When it comes to expressing “help please” formally in American Sign Language (ASL), there are specific signs that convey the intended message. Follow these steps:
- Sign for Help: To sign “help,” extend your dominant hand forward, palm-up, and use your other hand to pull down on your dominant hand, mimicking the motion of lifting something heavy. This sign demonstrates the act of offering assistance.
- Sign for Please: To sign “please,” take your dominant hand and make a flat palm, touching your chest with your fingertips. Move your hand in a circular motion a couple of times. This sign shows politeness and adds emphasis to your request for help.
Combining the two respective signs mentioned above, you can express “help please” formally in ASL.
Tip: When signing, maintain a calm and clear facial expression to convey your urgency effectively. Additionally, don’t forget to establish proper eye contact with the person you’re requesting help from to ensure they notice your signing.
Informal Way to Say “Help Please” in ASL
Informal signing often involves shortcuts or gestures used in casual settings. While ASL generally remains consistent, the informality may vary between individuals. Here’s a more casual way to say “help please” in ASL:
- Sign for Help: Use the same motion as in the formal sign, extending your palm-up dominant hand forward, but instead of using the other hand to pull down, you can omit this step for a more informal approach.
- Sign for Please: Similarly to the formal sign, touch your chest with your fingertips, but instead of making a circular motion, simply tap your chest a few times. This gesture implies a more relaxed and casual tone.
Remember, the informal signing approach may differ between individuals, so it’s essential to pay attention to context and the person you’re communicating with.
Additional Considerations
When learning to sign “help please” in any language, including sign language, it’s important to understand the cultural and regional implications as well. Here are a few factors to consider:
1. Regional Variations in Sign Language
Sign languages can have regional variations, so it’s important to adopt the signs that are commonly used in your area. While the signs explained above represent American Sign Language (ASL), different countries or communities may have their own unique signs for “help please”. It can be beneficial to seek guidance from local educators or resources specializing in sign language in your region.
2. Facial Expressions and Body Language
When signing, facial expressions and body language play a significant role in conveying meaning and tone. Maintain a warm and friendly facial expression to ensure your message is received with sincerity. Pay attention to your body language, too, as it helps to enhance the overall effectiveness of your sign.
3. Practice and Seek Feedback
Learning sign language requires practice and feedback. Find opportunities to interact with members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, sign language instructors, or online forums that promote sign language learning. Embrace their feedback and corrections to improve your signing skills over time.
Conclusion
Mastering basic sign language phrases like “help please” can make a significant difference in your ability to communicate effectively with individuals in the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. By following these formal and informal approaches, you’ll be well-prepared to express yourself in American Sign Language (ASL) when seeking assistance. Remember to practice regularly, remain open to regional variations, and always maintain a warm and respectful tone while signing.
