American Sign Language (ASL) is a beautiful and expressive visual language used by the Deaf community in the United States. If you’re looking to expand your ASL vocabulary, one important word to know is “instead.” In this guide, we will explore different ways to express “instead” in ASL, including both formal and informal variations. So, let’s dive in and learn how to incorporate this versatile word into your signing!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Sign “Instead”
When signing “instead” formally, the most common sign used is a combination of movements that convey the concept effectively. Follow these steps to sign “instead” in a formal setting:
- Start with your dominant hand extended in front of you, palm facing inward and fingers together.
- Next, move your hand in a small circular motion, like you are tracing the shape of a small coin, while keeping your fingers close together.
- Finally, end the movement by bringing your hand back to its original position.
Remember to keep your facial expression neutral and maintain eye contact to ensure effective communication and convey your meaning clearly.
Informal Way to Sign “Instead”
In more casual or informal conversations, there are variations of signing “instead” that convey the same meaning. Here is an alternate way to sign “instead” informally:
- Start with your dominant hand extended in front of you, palm facing upward, and fingers slightly apart.
- Next, move your hand in an upward and sweeping motion, similar to brushing something aside but without touching your other hand or body.
- Finally, bring your hand back down to rest at your side to complete the sign.
The informal variation is often used when signing with friends, family, or in more relaxed social settings. Remember to adapt your signing style to the context you find yourself in!
Examples Using “Instead”
To provide you with a better understanding of how to use “instead” in ASL, let’s explore some everyday examples:
Example 1:
Scenario: A Deaf friend asks if you would like tea or coffee with breakfast, but you prefer juice instead.
Your response: “Breakfast, juice instead.”
Example 2:
Scenario: A colleague suggests meeting for lunch at a fast-food restaurant, but you would prefer a healthier option instead.
Your response: “Lunch, healthy food instead.”
Example 3:
Scenario: You are discussing weekend plans with a friend and they propose going to the movies, but you prefer going hiking instead.
Your response: “Weekend, hike instead.”
Remember, the key to effectively using “instead” in ASL is incorporating it naturally into your sentence structure while maintaining good eye contact and using appropriate facial expressions.
Regional Variations
ASL is a rich and diverse language with regional variations that may influence signs used in specific areas. However, when it comes to expressing “instead,” the variations are minor, primarily adjusting the speed or motion of the sign slightly. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the local signing community’s customs and adapt accordingly if you’re in a specific region. Still, the formal and informal signs mentioned earlier are widely understood across the United States and should serve as a solid foundation for signing “instead” in most contexts.
Conclusion
Mastering new vocabulary is an essential part of learning any language, including ASL. In this guide, you’ve learned how to sign “instead” formally and informally in American Sign Language. Remember to adapt your signing style based on the context and maintain good eye contact and facial expressions for effective communication. With practice and immersion in the Deaf community, you’ll continue to expand your ASL knowledge and fluency. So, embrace the beauty of ASL and continue your journey as a skilled signer!
