Greetings are an important part of human interaction, and learning how to express them in different languages or communication methods can help you connect with people more deeply. If you’re interested in sign language, specifically in how to ask “How have you been,” you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to ask this question in sign language, while also touching on regional variations. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “How Have You Been”
When you want to ask someone, perhaps a respected figure or someone you’re meeting for the first time, “How have you been,” you can use the following signs:
1. How
Sign the word “how” by raising your eyebrows while forming an “H” shape with your dominant hand. Bring your hand up towards your face and slightly away from it.
TIP: Maintain a gentle facial expression to create a friendly atmosphere.
2. Have
To sign “have,” interlock your fingers together and then bring your hands up and forward, showing that you possess something.
TIP: Keep your hand movements smooth and natural.
3. You
For “you,” point your index finger towards the person you’re addressing. Keep your hand relaxed and your palm facing towards yourself.
4. Been
The sign for “been” involves placing your lead hand with palm down in front of your body, and then taking your dominant hand (bent with the same palm orientation) and sweeping it from behind your lead hand outwards in a semi-circular motion.
TIP: Maintain a smooth and flowing motion while signing “been.”
Putting it all together, you can ask “How have you been?” by signing: “How – Have – You – Been.”
Informal Ways to Ask “How Have You Been”
When you’re addressing friends, family, or acquaintances in a more casual setting, you may want to use a less formal sign language equivalent to ask “How have you been.” Here are some signs you can use:
1. How
The sign for “how” remains the same as in the formal version, where you raise your eyebrows while forming an “H” shape with your dominant hand and bring it up towards your face and slightly away from it.
2. Are
For “are,” sign it by extending your index and middle fingers of both hands and pressing them together at the knuckles. Then, move your hands back and forth slightly.
TIP: Make sure your hand movement is subtle and relaxed.
3. You
Similar to the formal version, point your index finger towards the person you’re addressing, keeping your hand relaxed and your palm facing towards yourself.
4. Be
To convey “been” in a more informal way, just sign it as “be.” Bend your dominant hand with your palm facing up and move it slightly forward, as if indicating a general state of existence. Remember to keep the motion fluid.
When combining these signs together, you can sign “How have you been?” informally by signing: “How – Are – You – Be.”
Regional Variations
Sign languages evolve and develop within specific communities, leading to some regional variations. While the signs mentioned above are commonly used in many sign language communities, it’s important to note that there might be slight differences depending on your geographic location. If you’re part of a specific sign language community, it can be helpful to consult with local speakers or resources to ensure accurate signing.
In Summary
Learning how to ask “How have you been” in sign language can open doors to meaningful interactions with both deaf and hearing-impaired individuals. Whether you’re using it in formal or informal settings, the key signs to remember are “how,” “have,” “you,” and “been.” For formal conversations, emphasize clarity and use slightly slower movements. In informal settings, be relaxed, and remember to include the sign for “are” before “you.” If you’re unsure about regional variations, consult resources specific to your sign language community.
Happy signing and may your interactions be filled with warm connections!
