Learning how to express the concept of “mean” in American Sign Language (ASL) can be useful in various contexts. Whether you want to describe someone’s behavior or explain a situation, being able to convey the meaning of “mean” accurately is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to sign “mean” in ASL, providing you with tips, examples, and highlighting any regional variations that may arise.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Sign “Mean” in ASL
When signing “mean” in a formal setting or a more professional context, it’s important to use appropriate language and mannerisms. Here are a few ways to convey the meaning:
1. Mean as Unkind or Cruel
One common way to sign “mean” is by using the ASL sign for “unfriendly.” To sign “unfriendly,” form both hands into loose fists and cross them in front of your chest, with your dominant hand on top. Then, pull your hands apart so that they are pointing outward, emphasizing that someone is behaving in an unkind or cruel manner. This sign signifies a person who is being intentionally hurtful.
Example: If you want to describe someone as “mean” because they said something unkind, you can sign: “That person said something mean to me.”
2. Mean as Average or Mediocre
In a more formal context, “mean” can also refer to the statistical term representing the average value. When using “mean” in this sense, you can simply sign “average” or use numbers to represent the concept.
Example: If you are discussing a statistical study, you could sign “The mean age of the participants was 32.”
Informal Ways to Sign “Mean” in ASL
Informal contexts often allow for more colloquial or expressive interpretations of the word “mean.” Here are a couple of informal ways to sign “mean” in ASL:
1. Mean as a Slang Term
In informal settings, you may come across slang terms used to convey the concept of “mean.” One such term is the ASL sign for “snotty.” To sign “snotty,” touch the tip of your middle finger to the tip of your nose, then flick your finger forward while extending it outward. This sign represents someone who is haughty, arrogant or acting superior to others.
Example: If someone is acting arrogantly, you can sign “That person is mean like a snob.”
2. Mean as Being Nasty or Ill-tempered
To describe someone as “mean” in an informal way, you can use the ASL sign for “nasty.” To sign “nasty,” form both hands into claw shapes with your fingers slightly spread apart. Starting with your dominant hand, swipe it down in front of your body in a sharp, diagonal motion. This sign conveys a person who is ill-tempered or displays a negative attitude.
Example: If someone is consistently rude, you can sign “That person has a mean attitude.”
Regional Variations
While American Sign Language is a standardized language across the United States, variations may arise due to regional influences. However, when signing “mean,” regional variations are not as prevalent compared to other signs, as the concept of “mean” is fairly universal. It’s always valuable to be aware of cultural considerations and to consult with local ASL resources if you encounter any specific variations in your area.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you effectively communicate the concept of “mean” in ASL:
- Use facial expressions and body language to highlight the intensity of the “mean” behavior. This enhances the overall meaning and impact of your signing.
- Take note of local Deaf communities or ASL classes in your area. Engaging with native signers can provide you with valuable insights into regional signing nuances and cultural context.
- Practice signing with clarity and precision. Clear handshapes and smooth movements are crucial for accurate communication in ASL.
- Don’t forget that context matters. Ensure you’re conveying “mean” in a way that aligns with the specific situation or intention.
Remember, learning to sign “mean” in ASL is an important step in developing your signing skills and expanding your vocabulary. As with any language, it’s essential to approach ASL with respect, empathy, and an eagerness to learn and bridge communication gaps. By understanding how to express “mean” in ASL, you can effectively communicate diverse concepts and emotions in the Deaf community.
