How to Say Hospital in American Sign Language (ASL)

When learning American Sign Language (ASL), it’s important to familiarize yourself with the vocabulary related to different places, such as a hospital. In this guide, we’ll explore how to say “hospital” in ASL, covering both formal and informal ways of signing it. It’s worth noting that sign language may vary slightly in different regions, so we’ll focus primarily on the standard ASL signs.

Formal Way to Say Hospital in ASL:

The formal sign for “hospital” in ASL involves a combination of two signs: “H” and “center.” Follow these steps:

1. Start by forming the ASL letter “H.” Extend your thumb and pinky finger while keeping your other fingers folded.
2. Next, bring both your hands in front of you, gently crossing one over the other with your palms down.
3. Finally, make a slight forward movement with both hands, emphasizing the crossing of the “H” hands.

Remember to maintain a warm tone and facial expression, as it conveys the caring and compassionate values associated with the context of a hospital.

Informal Way to Say Hospital in ASL:

If you’re in a more casual or informal setting, you can use a slightly modified sign for “hospital,” which involves just one sign:

Using your dominant hand, position it near your chin with your palm facing down and fingers slightly extended.

Move your hand in a small downward arc, similar to a patting motion on an imaginary surface below your chin.

This sign is often used in everyday conversations when referring to a hospital informally. Remember to maintain an expressive face to convey the appropriate meaning.

Tips for Signing “Hospital” in ASL:

Here are some tips to keep in mind when signing “hospital” in ASL:

1. Practice Consistently: Regular practice is key to mastering ASL signs. Take time to practice sign recognition and production to build your muscle memory.

2. Watch ASL Videos: Video resources featuring native signers can provide valuable visual guidance for understanding the appropriate sign for “hospital.”

3. Take ASL Classes or Workshops: Attending ASL classes or workshops can greatly enhance your signing skills, provide opportunities for clarification, and help you learn from experienced sign language instructors.

4. Facial Expressions Matter: In sign language, facial expressions and body language play a crucial role in conveying the intended meaning. Maintain appropriate facial expressions while signing “hospital” to capture the necessary emotions.

5. Be Mindful of Regional Variations: While the signs covered here are considered standard ASL signs, it’s important to be aware that there might be slight variations in different regions or among different signing communities. If interacting with individuals from specific regions, it’s helpful to learn any regional variations they may use.

Examples:

Here are a few examples to help reinforce how to sign “hospital” in ASL:

1. John asked Mary whether she had visited the hospital yesterday, signing it formally.
2. Sarah mentioned that she had to drop off some flowers she brought to a friend in the hospital, using the informal sign.
3. The nurse directed the patient to the hospital entrance, using the formal sign.

Remember, signing “hospital” in ASL involves combining the appropriate signs and maintaining the right facial expressions to convey meaning clearly.

By incorporating these tips, practicing regularly, and immersing yourself in ASL resources, you’ll gradually improve your signing skills and successfully communicate in a sign language community. Remember to approach learning ASL with enthusiasm, patience, and respect for Deaf culture and the accessibility it brings.