Learning how to communicate in American Sign Language (ASL) is not only a fun and enriching experience, but it also allows you to connect with the vibrant Deaf community. If you’re curious about how to express the concept of “last night” in ASL, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we will cover formal and informal ways to convey the idea of “last night” in ASL. Let’s dive in:
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When communicating formally, such as in a professional or educational setting, it’s important to use the appropriate signs. Here are some formal ways to express “last night” in ASL:
- YESTERDAY NIGHT: This is a simple and widely used formal expression for “last night.” To sign this, start with the sign for “yesterday,” which involves pointing your index finger backward over your shoulder. Then, transition smoothly into the sign for “night” by extending your arms forward and downward with your palms facing down.
- NIGHT BEFORE NOW: Another formal option is to sign “night before now.” This emphasizes the temporal relationship between the night being referenced and the present moment. Begin by signing “night” the same way as described above, and then make a sweeping motion with your dominant hand from your side to the front, symbolizing the concept of “before.”
Informal Expressions:
When communicating informally or casually among friends or in everyday situations, you have more flexibility in expressing “last night” in ASL. Here are some informal ways to convey the idea:
- LAST NIGHT: The most commonly used informal expression is simply signing “last night.” Start by signing “last” with your dominant hand by touching your fingertips to your chin, then move your hand to the side and downward while changing the motion into the sign for “night.”
- YESTERDAY, NIGHT HAPPENED: This informal expression is a bit more descriptive. Begin by signing “yesterday” using the sign mentioned earlier, then transition into the sign for “night” as before. Finally, indicate the completion of the night by clenching your non-dominant hand into a loose fist and gently lowering it downward.
Tips for Expressing “Last Night” in ASL:
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when signing “last night” in ASL:
- Facial Expressions: Facial expressions play a crucial role in ASL for conveying nuances and emotions. When signing “last night,” maintain a facial expression that appropriately matches the context, whether it’s formal or informal.
- Hand Placement and Movement: Pay attention to the specific hand placements and movements described for each sign. Accuracy and clarity are essential in ASL communication, so practice the signs carefully to ensure you are signing correctly.
- Speed and Fluency: Aim to sign “last night” smoothly and naturally, rather than hesitating or signing the individual words separately. Fluent signing enhances communication and makes it easier for others to understand your intended meaning.
- Practice with a Native Signer: If possible, practice with a native ASL signer who can provide feedback and help you refine your signing skills. This language is best learned through hands-on experience and interaction with fluent signers.
Examples:
Let’s look at a few examples to clarify the formal and informal ways of expressing “last night” in ASL:
Example 1: During a formal presentation, a speaker signs, “Yesterday night, I attended an inspiring theater performance.”
Example 2: Informally, someone signs to their friend, “Last night, we had a great time at the party!”
Example 3: In a casual conversation, a person signs, “Yesterday, night happened, and I watched a fantastic movie.”
Remember, practice is key to becoming proficient in ASL. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become with expressing various concepts, including “last night.” Enjoy the journey of learning this beautiful language and connecting with the Deaf community!
