Welcome! If you’re looking to learn how to say the word “July” in American Sign Language (ASL), you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express the month of July in ASL. Along the way, we’ll provide tips, examples, and even touch on any regional variations that may exist. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way
When it comes to expressing the month of July in a formal context, you can utilize a specific sign that is universally recognized. The ASL sign for July involves a combination of hand movements that represent the letters “J” and “Y”. Follow these steps to produce the formal sign for July:
- Hold your dominant hand in a fist, with your index finger extended and pointing slightly upward.
- Bring your hand forward in a slight arc, forming the letter “J” in ASL.
- From the “J” position, smoothly transition into forming the letter “Y” by extending your pinky finger from the fist.
- Conclude the sign by holding the position momentarily.
Remember, when signing July formally, it’s important to maintain clear hand shapes and smooth transitions between the letters “J” and “Y”. Practice will help you achieve fluency and accuracy.
Informal Way
For more casual or informal contexts, you can use an abbreviated form of the formal sign for July. This informal variation stems from the influence of shorthand or common usage within the ASL community. To express July informally, follow these simplified steps:
- With your dominant hand, place your thumb on your chest, slightly above your heart.
- Gently slide your thumb downward, stopping just above your stomach.
- Perform this sliding motion twice.
The informal sign for July is reminiscent of sliding your thumb along a calendar, symbolizing the passing of days within the month. This more casual representation is commonly used among friends or within relaxed conversations.
Tips and Examples
To enhance your understanding of signing July in ASL, here are a few additional tips and examples:
1. Facial Expressions Matter
Remember that facial expressions play a crucial role in ASL, helping to convey emotions or specific meanings. When signing “July,” maintain a neutral and content facial expression to reflect the general sentiment associated with summer.
2. Context is Key
The sign for “July” will often make more sense when used within the context of a sentence or conversation. For example:
“I love the warm weather in July!”
“July is a popular month for vacations.”
“My birthday is in July!”
By incorporating signs into broader communication, you’ll fully embrace the richness of ASL.
3. Regional Variations
While the signs for “July” mentioned above are widely understood across different regions, it is worth mentioning that there might be subtle variations that emerge within specific ASL communities. These variations can stem from dialects, local signs, or regional preferences. If you encounter such differences, it’s always a great opportunity to embrace the diversity and learn from others.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of this guide on how to express “July” in ASL. Remember the formal sign involving the letters “J” and “Y” for more formal occasions, and the informal slide down your chest for casual conversations. Don’t forget to incorporate facial expressions and consider the context when using the sign. Embrace any regional variations you may encounter. Now you’re ready to confidently sign “July” in ASL, whether it’s in a formal setting or a friendly chat.
Happy signing and have a fantastic month of July!
