Greetings! Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to express your age in American Sign Language (ASL). In ASL, there are various ways to convey your age depending on the level of formality and personal preferences. This guide will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing your age, providing tips and examples to enhance your understanding. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “My Age Is” in ASL
When expressing your age formally in ASL, it’s important to consider your audience and the level of respect you want to convey. Here are some formal ways to communicate your age:
- Method 1: Using cardinal numbers
Cardinal numbers are numerical signs used in ASL to represent specific values. To convey your age formally, you can sign the cardinal number representing your age followed by the sign for “years-old.” For example:
Example: If you are 25 years old, sign “25 years-old.”
This method is clear and straightforward, ensuring that your age is easily understood by others without any ambiguity.
- Method 2: Using fingerspelling
Another formal way to express your age is through fingerspelling. Fingerspelling involves using specific handshapes to represent each letter of the alphabet. To communicate your age formally, you can fingerspell each digit of your age followed by the sign for “years-old.” For instance:
Example: If you are 31 years old, fingerspell “3-1 years-old.”
Fingerspelling allows for precision and clarity when conveying numbers, particularly for complex ages or in professional settings.
Informal Ways to Say “My Age Is” in ASL
Informal expressions of age in ASL are often more relaxed and commonly used among friends, family, or in casual conversations. Here are a few informal ways to communicate your age:
- Method 1: Using age references
Instead of using specific numbers, you can describe your age informally by using common age references in ASL. These age references are established signs that represent certain periods of life. Here are a few examples:
Example: If you are a young adult, you can sign “I am in my 20s” or “I am a twentysomething.”
Example: If you are a senior citizen, you can sign “I am in my 60s” or “I am a sixtysomething.”
Using age references in ASL adds a more conversational and informal touch when discussing your age with others.
- Method 2: Combining references and cardinal numbers
In some situations, you may want to express your age more precisely while still maintaining an informal tone. This can be achieved by employing a combination of age references and cardinal numbers. Here’s an example:
Example: If you just turned 45, you can sign “I am in my mid-40s.”
By using a general age reference like “mid-40s,” you give a ballpark idea of your age without specifying the exact number.
Regional Variations
ASL has regional variations, and certain signs may have different interpretations or adaptations across different areas. When it comes to expressing age, the cardinal numbers and fingerspelling tend to be consistent throughout most ASL communities. However, age references and cultural expressions may vary. It’s always helpful to familiarize yourself with the local signs and customs when communicating your age in ASL within a specific region.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned different ways to say “My Age Is” in ASL, both formally and informally. Remember to consider the level of formality and your audience when expressing your age in ASL. The formal methods involve using cardinal numbers or fingerspelling, while the informal approaches make use of age references combined with general numbers or ranges. Enjoy practicing and incorporating these techniques into your ASL conversations. Happy signing!
