In American Sign Language (ASL), the word “how” is commonly used to ask about the manner or way in which something is done. It is an essential word that can help you communicate effectively and gather information from others. This guide will teach you how to sign “how” in ASL, providing both formal and informal ways, as well as useful tips and examples to help you understand and apply the signs correctly.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Sign “How” in ASL
Formal signing is usually preferred in professional settings or when interacting with individuals who are not familiar with informal variations. Below are a few formal ways to sign “how” in ASL:
1. Single-Handed “How” Sign
One of the most common formal signs for “how” in ASL involves using your dominant hand. Follow these steps to sign “how” in a formal manner:
- Extend your dominant hand in front of you, palm facing upwards.
- Using your other hand, place your fingertips below your open palm, and then sweep your fingertips upward in a smooth motion.
This sign represents the concept of “how” and can be used in various situations.
2. “How” Sign with the Dominant Hand Over the Nondominant Hand
Another formal way to sign “how” in ASL is through the following steps:
- Place your dominant hand flat, palm facing down.
- Rest your nondominant hand below your dominant hand, palm facing up.
- Move your dominant hand back and forth in a gentle rocking motion.
Using this sign indicates that you are asking for an explanation or requesting more information about a particular matter.
Informal Ways to Sign “How” in ASL
Informal signing is commonly used among friends, family, or in more casual settings. Here are some informal ways to sign “how” in ASL:
1. Single-Handed “How” Sign with a Slight Twist
The informal variation of the single-handed “how” sign involves adding a slight twist to your wrist during the motion. This modification adds a more relaxed and less formal feel to the sign.
2. “How” Sign with Raised Eyebrows
Another informal way to sign “how” in ASL is by using the regular single-handed sign while simultaneously raising your eyebrows. This facial expression signifies curiosity and a desire to learn more about the topic at hand.
Useful Tips and Examples
Now that you know the formal and informal ways to sign “how” in ASL, here are some tips and examples to further enhance your understanding:
1. Practice Facial Expressions
ASL incorporates various facial expressions to convey different emotions or attitudes. When signing “how,” remember to use appropriate facial expressions to support your message. A warm and engaging look is often appreciated.
2. Observe Sign Speed
When signing “how” or any other ASL word, it’s crucial to maintain a moderate pace. Avoid rushing or signing too slowly, as it may hinder understanding. Pay attention to the sign recipient’s response and adjust your signing speed accordingly.
3. Contextualize Your Signs
ASL relies heavily on context, so it’s essential to provide sufficient information when using the sign for “how.” For example, if you want to ask, “How did you prepare that dish?,” include signs for “dish” and “prepare” in addition to signing “how.”
Example: How did you prepare that dish? (combine signs for “dish,” “prepare,” and “how”)
4. Seek Feedback and Practice
To improve your ASL skills, it’s beneficial to seek feedback from fluent signers or join local ASL learning groups. Practice regularly to increase your fluency and confidence in signing “how” and other ASL words.
Regional Variations
ASL has regional variations, just like spoken languages have dialects. While the signs mentioned are generally accepted across America, slight variations may occur within specific communities or regions. If you encounter a different sign for “how” in your area, consider embracing that local variant while remaining mindful of the formal and informal norms mentioned above.
Remember, ASL is a vibrant language that thrives on visual communication and meaningful expressions. By learning these different ways to sign “how” in ASL, you are taking a step towards building effective and inclusive communication with the Deaf community. So, embrace the language and continue expanding your ASL skills!
