Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to express the feeling of “nervous” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are looking to communicate in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we will explore various signs for “nervous,” including tips, examples, and regional variations. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
The Formal Way
When it comes to formal situations, such as professional or academic settings, it is recommended to use signs that are universally understood across different regions. Here are some widely used signs for “nervous” in ASL:
1. ASL Sign for Nervous
The most common and widely recognized sign for “nervous” in ASL is performed by making both hands into “S” shapes. Hold your hands at chest level, palms facing inwards, then move them in short, shaking motions. This sign represents the feeling of nervousness or anxiety.
2. Alternate Formal Sign for Nervous
Another formal sign for “nervous” is to hold both hands at chest level, palms facing each other, fingers spread apart, and quickly flutter your fingers. This sign indicates the rapid heartbeats that often accompany nervousness.
The Informal Way
For informal situations among friends, family, or in casual conversations, you can utilize signs that are more relaxed and commonly used within the Deaf community. Here are a few informal signs for “nervous” in ASL:
1. Claustrophobic Variation
An informal way to express feeling “nervous” is by utilizing the sign for “claustrophobic.” Place both hands flat against your chest and make a pressing motion outward. This sign is often used when feeling anxious or uncomfortable in crowded or confined spaces.
2. Butterflies in Stomach
Another informal sign for “nervous” is mimicking the feeling of “butterflies in your stomach.” Place both hands near your stomach, palms facing up, and wiggle your fingers gently. This sign refers to the fluttering sensation felt due to nervousness.
Regional Variations
ASL is a rich and diverse language, and sometimes signs can vary by region. However, when it comes to expressing “nervous,” the signs mentioned earlier are widely understood across different regions. It’s important to note that regional variations might exist for certain signs, but they are not specific to “nervous.”
Tips for Accurate Communication
When using ASL to convey the feeling of “nervous,” keep these tips in mind:
- Facial Expressions: Use appropriate facial expressions to enhance your sign for “nervous.” Facial expressions play a crucial role in ASL.
- Body Language: Your body language should align with the feeling of nervousness. Display slight tension, fidgeting, or restless movements to convey the emotion effectively.
- Speed and Intensity: Adjust the speed and intensity of your signing to match the intensity of your nervousness. Slower, deliberate signing may imply heightened anxiety.
Examples in Context
Let’s explore a few examples that incorporate the signs for “nervous” into common ASL phrases:
“I have a presentation tomorrow, and I’m so nervous! My hands won’t stop shaking!”
“This roller coaster makes me feel nervous. My heart is racing!”
As you can see, the signs for “nervous” can be seamlessly integrated into various everyday conversations to express the feeling accurately and effectively.
In Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with valuable information on how to say “nervous” in ASL. Remember, depending on the formality of the setting, you can choose between the more formal signs or the informal ones. Additionally, it’s crucial to understand and respect any regional variations. By applying the tips, examples, and signs in this guide, you will be able to communicate the feeling of “nervous” confidently and accurately in ASL.
