ASL, a vibrant and expressive language, allows individuals to communicate through signing and facial expressions. In this guide, we’ll explore how to convey the phrase “I was sick” in ASL. We’ll cover both formal and informal variations, with a focus on American Sign Language. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When using ASL in more formal situations, you may opt for a more elaborate expression to convey that you were sick. Here are a few formal ways to communicate this:
1. Illness: Start by signing the word “ILL” using both hands forming the letter ‘i’ shape, palms facing inward. Then, move your hands down towards your body’s center.
2. Sickness: Begin this sign by extending your dominant “V” handshape toward your chest, with fingers pointing upward. Move your hand diagonally across your chest while forming a flat handshape with fingers extended.
3. Ailing: Sign “AIL” using your nondominant hand being stationary and your dominant hand moving in a circular motion on top of your nondominant hand.
4. Under the Weather: Hold both hands up, palms facing down. Make a circular motion with your dominant hand while it hovers over your nondominant hand.
Informal Expressions
In informal situations or casual conversations, ASL signs for “I was sick” can be less elaborate. Here are a few simpler, yet still clearly understood, informal expressions:
1. Sick: Simply sign the letter ‘s’ with your dominant hand. Place it on your forehead or chest softly.
2. Feeling Bad: Place your flat hand with fingers extended on your chest and palm facing inward. Bring it down firmly toward your belly.
3. Not Well: Point to yourself by using an index finger, then sign “NOT” by swiping your index finger downward across your chest, followed by the sign for “WELL”, formed by bringing both fists together and then extending your index fingers side by side.
4. Unhealthy: Use one hand to sign “UNHEALTHY”. Extend your fingers together, palm facing yourself. Then, move your hand towards your body, crossing your palm, and ending with palm facing downward.
Regional Variations
ASL may have slight regional variations, although basic signs tend to remain consistent across the United States. However, it is always beneficial to learn and understand different regional customs if you are planning to interact extensively with ASL speakers from specific areas. Here are a few examples of regional variations:
1. Variation 1: Some signers in certain regions use a circular motion over the stomach instead of down toward the belly when indicating “Feeling Bad.”
2. Variation 2: In some areas, instead of just signing “Sick” on the forehead or chest, signers may indicate the illness by pointing to a specific part of the body that was affected.
Remember, regional variations might exist, but they are not significant enough to hinder communication. It’s important to focus on the fundamental elements of ASL and adapt to any regional differences you encounter.
A Few Tips for Learning ASL
Mastering ASL takes time and practice. Here are some useful tips to enhance your learning experience:
- Take ASL Classes: Attend local ASL classes or enroll in online courses to receive proper instruction from experienced signers.
- Practice Regularly: Dedicate time each day to practice signing, watch ASL videos, or interact with the Deaf community.
- Utilize Online Resources: There are numerous websites, apps, and forums dedicated to ASL learning. Utilize them for additional practice and support.
- Immerse in the Deaf Community: Engage with signers in your local Deaf community to gain practical experience and cultural awareness.
- Ask for Feedback: Request feedback from fluent ASL signers to refine your signing skills and improve fluency.
Remember, learning ASL is not just about learning the signs; it’s about embracing the Deaf culture and fostering meaningful connections.
Examples of “I Was Sick” in ASL
Let’s conclude this guide with a few examples of how to sign “I was sick” in ASL:
- Formal:
- “I was ill.” – Sign “ILL” moving hands down toward your body’s center.
- “I was experiencing sickness.” – Begin by extending your dominant “V” handshape toward your chest, then diagonally move it across your chest.
- Informal:
- “I was sick.” – Sign the letter ‘s’ with your dominant hand, placing it on your forehead or chest softly.
- “I didn’t feel well.” – Point to yourself, then sign “NOT” by swiping your index finger downward across your chest. Finally, sign “WELL” with both fists together, extending your index fingers side by side.
Remember, fluency in ASL requires consistent practice and patience. Embrace every opportunity to use ASL and foster a genuine connection with the Deaf community.
