Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to express the concept of “now” in American Sign Language (ASL). In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey “now” using ASL, and provide you with tips, examples, and even touch upon regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive into the world of ASL and discover how to communicate “now” effectively in this remarkable visual language.
Table of Contents
1. The Formal Way to Say “Now” in ASL
When it comes to formal ASL, there are a few signs you can use to express “now.” However, one commonly used sign is the sign for “now” which involves the following steps:
- Extend your non-dominant hand, palm facing up.
- With your dominant hand, starting with an open palm facing down, move it down towards your non-dominant hand in a quick, precise motion.
- Stop your dominant hand suddenly just above your non-dominant hand, while keeping your non-dominant hand extended.
- You have successfully signed “now” in a formal way! This sign emphasizes the immediate present moment.
Remember, signing “now” in a formal context might require a more precise and deliberate motion to signify the importance of the present moment.
2. The Informal Way to Say “Now” in ASL
In informal ASL conversations, there are variations and shortcuts that are commonly used to express “now.” These gestures are more relaxed and can be used in casual conversations or when speed is necessary. Here are a couple of commonly used informal expressions for “now” in ASL:
2.1 The Fingerspelled “N-O-W” Shortcut
A quick and commonly used method to convey “now” informally in ASL is by fingerspelling the letters N-O-W using your dominant hand. This shortcut is often used in fast-paced conversations or when conveying a quick thought or instruction.
Example: Let’s imagine a scenario where a group of friends is discussing what time they should meet for dinner. One person suggests meeting N-O-W to emphasize the importance of acting promptly.
2.2 The Quick Tap Gesture
Another informal way to communicate “now” in ASL is by tapping your index or middle finger on the back of your non-dominant hand, close to your wrist. This gesture signifies immediacy or urgency and can be a handy shortcut in many informal situations.
Example: Imagine you are at a coffee shop, and you want to order a drink, but the line is long. You can sign “I want coffee now,” while performing the quick tap gesture on your non-dominant hand to express your urgency.
3. Tips for Communicating “Now” in ASL
Here are some valuable tips to help you effectively express “now” in ASL:
Tip 1: Use appropriate facial expressions to enhance your signing of “now.” Facial expressions play a crucial role in ASL and can emphasize the sense of urgency or immediacy you want to convey.
Tip 2: Pay attention to your signing space. Ensure your signs related to “now” are executed close to your body or in an appropriate location, depending on the context and the object or person being referred to.
Tip 3: Adapt your signing style to the situation. Formal settings generally demand more precise and deliberate signs, while informal situations allow for faster and more simplified gestures to convey “now.”
4. Regional Variations in ASL
While ASL is a standardized language, some regional variations can occur due to cultural nuances and influences. However, when it comes to expressing “now” in ASL, there are no significant regional variations that alter the meaning or signs. The formal and informal methods described in this guide are widely used across different regions where ASL is utilized.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned valuable ways to convey “now” in both formal and informal ASL contexts. Remember to practice signing “now” with appropriate facial expressions and adapt your signing style based on the situation. Over time and with practice, you will develop fluency and confidence in expressing the concept of “now” in ASL.
