When communicating in American Sign Language (ASL), it’s essential to understand common phrases and greetings. One such phrase that you may find useful is “How are you?” This guide will teach you how to say “How are you?” in ASL, covering both formal and informal variations. While regional variations might exist, we will focus on the widely recognized signs. So let’s dive in and learn how to express this commonly used greeting in ASL!
Table of Contents
Formal way to ask “How are you?” in ASL
When using the ASL sign for “How are you?” in formal situations, it’s important to use the appropriate level of etiquette. Here is how to sign it:
Step 1: Place your open right hand, palm facing inward and fingers together, near your chest.
Step 2: Move your hand forward and slightly upward, while maintaining the initial handshape.
Step 3: Finish the sign by making a circular motion with your hand while keeping your palm facing downward.
Remember, during formal interactions, it’s important to sign with clarity and maintain eye contact. This shows respect and helps ensure effective communication.
Informal way to ask “How are you?” in ASL
For more casual or informal situations, you can use a modified version of the sign for “How are you?”. Here is the informal way:
Step 1: Start with your right hand in a relaxed “5” handshape, with fingers slightly spread apart.
Step 2: Place your hand near your chest with your palm facing slightly inward.
Step 3: Move your hand forward in a relaxed manner, while maintaining the initial handshape.
Step 4: Finish the sign by casually dropping your hand downward, rather than making a circular motion.
Informal signing often involves a more relaxed body language and facial expression. Remember to adjust your signing style accordingly for the given context.
Additional Tips and Variations
1. Nodding or raising your eyebrows
When signing “How are you?”, it’s common to accompany the sign with a nod or raising your eyebrows. These non-manual markers help express the question more clearly.
2. Reply with “I’m good” or “I’m fine”
If someone signs “How are you?” to you, it’s customary to respond with “I’m good” or “I’m fine” in ASL. Here’s how to sign it:
- Make the sign for “I” by pointing your index finger toward your chest.
- Then, extend your right hand upward, palm facing inward, and move it slightly away from your body.
- Finally, complete the sign by turning your palm upwards and bringing your hand closer to your chest.
3. Expressing different emotions
In ASL, you have the flexibility to express different emotions when you sign “How are you?”. You can adjust your facial expressions and body language to communicate whether you are feeling great, okay, or not so good. Don’t be afraid to show your emotions while signing!
4. Practice with a fluent signer
To ensure you are signing correctly and with the appropriate cultural nuances, it’s beneficial to practice with a fluent ASL signer. They can provide valuable feedback and guidance on your signing skills.
Conclusion
Now you know how to say “How are you?” in both formal and informal settings in ASL. Remember, ASL is a rich and dynamic language, and it’s important to consider the context when using any phrase or greeting. By following the steps and tips provided in this guide, you will be able to engage in conversations and greet others confidently in ASL. So, go ahead and start using this new knowledge to connect with the Deaf community!
