Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “next to” in American Sign Language (ASL). In this guide, we will provide you with formal and informal ways to express the concept of “next to” in ASL. We’ll include valuable tips, examples, and even some regional variations. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Next to” in ASL
When it comes to expressing the concept of “next to” formally in ASL, you can use the following signs:
Sign: SIDE-BY-SIDE
This sign involves placing your non-dominant hand flat, palm facing up, and your dominant hand perpendicular to it, palm down. Move your dominant hand back and forth while keeping your non-dominant hand stationary. This sign represents being “next to” someone or something.
This formal sign is commonly used in situations where clarity and precision are important, such as in educational or professional settings. It signifies the idea of being in close proximity or adjacency to someone or something.
Informal Ways to Say “Next to” in ASL
If you’re in a casual setting or conversing with friends, there are a few informal ways to express “next to” in ASL. Here are some signs you can use:
Sign: TOUCH
Extend your index finger and use it to tap lightly on the side of your hand or other objects. This sign indicates being “next to” something or someone, almost touching or in close proximity.
Sign: CLOSE
Bring your hands together, palms facing each other, fingers extended. Your hands should be close but not quite touching. This sign conveys being “close to” something or someone, representing the concept of “next to.”
These informal signs are ideal for social gatherings or everyday conversations with friends and family. They add a relaxed and friendly tone to your signing.
Tips for Using “Next to” in ASL
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when signing “next to” in ASL:
- Pay attention to your body positioning when signing. Ensure your body and hands are aligned to clearly convey the concept of being “next to” someone or something.
- Maintain eye contact with the person you are signing with. This promotes effective communication and enhances understanding.
- Use facial expressions to reinforce your message. Expressions of proximity and adjacency further clarify your intent.
Examples of “Next to” in ASL
To better understand how to incorporate “next to” in your ASL conversations, here are a few examples:
Example 1:
If you want to say, “I sat next to my friend at the movie theater,” you could use the sign for “SIDE-BY-SIDE” or the informal sign for “TOUCH” to convey being seated right beside your friend.
Example 2:
To express, “The bookstore is next to the supermarket,” you can use the formal sign for “SIDE-BY-SIDE” or the informal sign for “CLOSE.” This highlights the proximity between the bookstore and the supermarket.
Example 3:
If you wish to say, “The cat sleeps next to me every night,” you can utilize the informal sign for “TOUCH” to indicate the cat sleeping close to you.
Remember, the specific sign you choose can vary depending on the context, your relationship with the person or object you’re referencing, and your personal signing style. Adapt these examples to suit your needs!
Regional Variations
ASL has some regional variations, but they generally do not impact the signs for “next to.” While there may be slight differences in signing style or phrasing, the signs described above are widely recognized and understood across different ASL communities.
However, if you encounter distinct regional variations, embrace the opportunity to learn and adapt. Interacting with individuals from diverse signing backgrounds enriches your ASL vocabulary and cultural knowledge.
Practice, patience, and exposure to various signing styles will enhance your ability to communicate “next to” effectively in ASL.
In Conclusion
In this guide, we explored formal and informal ways to say “next to” in ASL. We learned the signs for “SIDE-BY-SIDE” and “TOUCH,” both of which convey the concept effectively. Remember to consider the context, your relationship with the subject, and your specific signing style when using these signs.
By incorporating body positioning, eye contact, and facial expressions, you can master the art of expressing “next to” in ASL. Embrace any regional variations as opportunities for growth and broadening your understanding of ASL.
So, go ahead and confidently incorporate “next to” into your ASL conversations. Happy signing!
