Crystal Brooke
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to sign “made” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you’re communicating formally or informally, it’s essential to know the appropriate signs and gestures to convey your message effectively. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “made” in ASL, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations as necessary.
Formal Ways to Say “Made” in ASL
When expressing “made” in a formal setting, such as during a professional presentation, you can use the following signs:
- Made (Formal): Extend your non-dominant hand, palm facing upwards. With your dominant hand, form an “A” shape and rest it on your non-dominant hand, slightly wiggling it left and right.
- Created (Formal): Hold your non-dominant hand outstretched at chest level, palm facing up. With your dominant hand, form a “C” shape with the thumb touching the fingertips, then touch it to the palm of your non-dominant hand and make a small circular motion.
- Produced (Formal): Extend your non-dominant hand, palm facing upwards. With your dominant hand, move your index finger up and down on the palm of your non-dominant hand, mimicking the motion of creating something.
Informal Ways to Say “Made” in ASL
For more casual or everyday conversations, you can use the following signs to convey “made” in ASL:
- Made (Informal): Hold your non-dominant hand outstretched, palm facing down. With your dominant hand, make a “five” handshape (all fingers closed except the thumb), and tap it on the back of your non-dominant hand a couple of times.
- Created (Informal): Gesture with both hands as if you are molding or shaping something with your fingers. Start with your hands slightly apart, and bring them together, forming the shape of the object you’re referring to.
- Produced (Informal): Hold your non-dominant hand outstretched, palm facing upwards. With your dominant hand, mimic the motion of stirring or mixing in the palm of your non-dominant hand, indicating the act of producing something.
Examples and Usage
Now that you’re familiar with the formal and informal signs for “made” in ASL, here are some example sentences to help you understand their usage:
Formal: During the presentation, the speaker highlighted the incredible progress made in the field of medical research.
Informal: Yesterday, I made a delicious apple pie using my secret recipe.
Remember, context and facial expressions play a vital role in conveying meaning in ASL. Ensure you maintain eye contact, use appropriate facial expressions, and gesture with clarity to enhance your communication.
Regional Variations
While the signs for “made” described above are widely understood in many ASL communities, it’s worth noting that regional variations may exist. If you’re learning ASL within a specific region or community, it can be valuable to consult with local members or instructors to identify any unique signs or gestures used to express “made” in that particular context.
Tips for Improving Your ASL Skills
If you’re eager to enhance your ASL abilities, here are some practical tips:
- Take ASL Classes: Enroll in ASL classes at your local community center, college, or online platforms to receive formal instruction and practice your signing skills.
- Practice Regularly: Set aside regular time for practicing ASL, whether it’s by watching ASL videos, communicating with native signers, or attending ASL events in your area.
- Utilize Online Resources: Explore various online resources, such as ASL dictionaries, video tutorials, and forums, which can provide additional support and help answer any questions you may have.
- Join ASL Communities: Engage with the Deaf community through events, social media groups, or local Deaf clubs. Communicating with native signers allows you to immerse yourself in the language and culture, fostering growth and fluency.
Remember, learning any new language takes time and dedication. Embrace every opportunity to practice and communicate in ASL, as it’s a beautiful language that connects individuals and communities.
