Welcome to this guide on how to express the word “obvious” in American Sign Language (ASL). In ASL, the term “obvious” can be conveyed in various ways depending on the formality of the situation and personal preferences. Below, we will explore both formal and informal ways of expressing “obvious” in ASL, while also providing you with tips, examples, and any necessary regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Obvious” in ASL
When it comes to formal situations, such as professional or academic settings where you want to maintain a respectful tone, you have a few options for expressing “obvious” in ASL.
The “OBVIOUS” Sign
The most direct and widely understood way to convey “obvious” in ASL is by using the sign for “OBVIOUS.” This sign is made by forming the letter ‘O’ with your dominant hand and placing it in front of your face, slightly tilted towards your non-dominant side. This sign can be used as a standalone sign or in combination with other signs or sentences. For example:
It is obvious that the sun rises in the east.
His deception was obvious to everyone in the room.
Informal Ways to Say “Obvious” in ASL
In informal situations, such as chatting with friends or family members, you might want to express “obvious” in a more relaxed or easier way. Here are a couple of options that are commonly used:
“EVERYBODY KNOW”
This phrase can be used to express “obvious” in a more casual way. It involves signing “EVERYBODY” by using your dominant hand to tap your forehead, then forming the letter ‘K’ and ending by pointing outward with your index finger. To indicate “KNOW,” you make a fist with your dominant hand and tap it twice against your forehead. Combining both signs, you convey the concept of something being “obvious” to everyone. Here are some examples:
Everybody knows that she likes him.
It’s obvious to everybody what he did.
Tips for Expressing “Obvious” in ASL
Here are a few general tips to keep in mind when expressing “obvious” in ASL:
- Ensure your facial expressions match the intended meaning. Use raised eyebrows and a slightly tilted head to depict sincerity when signing “obvious.”
- Practice signing “obvious” in front of a mirror to refine your handshape and movement.
- Remember that ASL can vary slightly between regions, so it’s always helpful to learn from Deaf community members in your area for any specific regional variations.
By following these tips, you can effectively convey the notion of “obvious” in ASL.
Remember that practice is key when learning any language, including sign language. The more you practice signing “obvious” in different contexts, the better you will become at expressing yourself naturally and confidently.
Now that you understand how to say “obvious” in different ways in ASL, go ahead and practice by incorporating it into your daily conversations. Learning ASL not only expands your communication abilities but also promotes inclusivity and understanding within the Deaf community. So, have fun learning and signing!
