When it comes to expressing your desire for more of something in American Sign Language (ASL), there are different ways to convey this message, depending on the formality of the situation. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal variations of the phrase “I want more” in ASL. We’ll also provide useful tips, examples, and discuss any regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “I Want More” in ASL
1. Basic Sign:
The basic sign for “want” in ASL involves extending your dominant hand forward, palm up, while making a grabbing motion. Then, using the sign for “more,” bring your thumb and fingers together and tap them twice.
Tip: Maintain direct eye contact while signing to convey formality and respect.
Example: To sign “I want more apples,” combine the sign for “want” with the sign for “apple.”
2. Polite Request:
When expressing a polite request for more in a formal setting, combine the sign for “please” with the sign for “want.” Extend your dominant hand forward, palm up, while making a grabbing motion, then bring your thumb and fingers together and tap them twice.
Tip: Make sure to articulate the sign for “please” clearly and maintain a gentle facial expression to convey politeness.
Example: To sign “May I have more water, please?” combine the signs for “water,” “please,” and “want.”
Informal Ways to Say “I Want More” in ASL
1. Casual Sign:
In informal situations, you can use a more casual sign variation of “want more.” Extend your dominant hand forward, palm up, while making a grabbing motion, and then simply move your hand up and down a few times, indicating the concept of “more.”
Tip: Use a relaxed facial expression and maintain a friendly tone to match the informality.
Example: To sign “I want more candy,” combine the casual sign for “want more” with the sign for “candy.”
2. Relaxed Request:
In an informal or casual setting, you can use a relaxed and less formal variation of “want more” which involves extending your dominant hand forward, palm up, while making a grabbing motion. Then, instead of tapping twice, bring your thumb and fingers together and tap them once.
Tip: Keep your movements smooth and natural when signing in an informal context.
Example: To sign “Can you give me more chips?” combine the relaxed sign for “want more” with the sign for “chips.”
Regional Variations
While ASL is a standardized form of sign language used across the United States, there can be slight regional variations in signs. However, for the phrase “I want more,” the signs mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout the country.
Tip: If you are in a specific region and notice variations, it can be helpful to observe and adapt to the local signing conventions.
Conclusion
Expressing your desire for more in ASL can be done in various ways, depending on the formality of the situation. From basic signs to polite requests and casual variations, you can adapt your signing to match the context. Remember, maintaining a warm and respectful tone while signing is essential to effectively convey your message. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to explore additional resources to enhance your ASL skills!
