Learning American Sign Language (ASL) opens up a world of communication and bridges the gap between the deaf and hearing communities. Mastering various signs is essential to ensure effective communication, including knowing how to express time-related concepts. Whether you want to ask someone to wait for a moment or indicate that you only have one minute to spare, knowing how to sign “one minute” in ASL is valuable. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this phrase, while providing tips, examples, and insights regarding regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Sign “One Minute” in ASL
When it comes to formal ASL, it’s essential to use signs that are widely accepted and taught in educational settings. Here is how you can formally sign “one minute” in ASL:
1. Number Sign: One
To begin, hold up your hand with your palm facing outward. Extend your thumb, index, and middle finger, keeping your other fingers tucked into your palm. This is the ASL sign for the number “one.”
Tip:
Ensure your palm is facing outward, so your intent is clear and the sign can be easily understood.
Example: If someone asks, “Can you wait for a moment?” You can respond while signing the number “one,” indicating you’ll only take a single minute.
Informal Way to Sign “One Minute” in ASL
While formal ASL follows standardized signs taught in educational settings, informal ASL varies across regions and communities. Informal signs often evolve and develop within smaller groups. Here is an informal way to sign “one minute” in ASL:
1. Finger Tap
In an informal setting, you can quickly wave your index finger back and forth, tapping it against your palm once. This informal sign resembles the concept of “just a second” or “wait one moment.”
Tip:
When using informal signs, you should consider the context and the recipient’s familiarity with specific variations. If in doubt, it’s best to use the formal ASL method to ensure clear communication.
Example: During a friendly conversation, if you need a moment to gather your thoughts, you can gesture the finger tap sign while indicating that you’ll be ready in “one minute.”
Regional Variations
Although ASL is a standardized language, regional variations and dialects can occur due to cultural influences, geographic separation, or natural language evolution. Understanding regional variations may be useful, particularly in diverse communities or if you plan to communicate with ASL users from various areas. Here are a few examples of regional variations when signing “one minute” in ASL:
1. East Coast Variant
On the East Coast of the United States, some individuals use a modified version of the formal sign for “one minute.” Instead of signing the number “one” with a vertical hand position, they form the “one” handshape horizontally and move it in a circular motion while touching the wrist with their thumb.
2. Midwest Variant
In some regions of the Midwest, ASL users might utilize an altered finger tap sign for “one minute.” Instead of tapping the index finger against the palm, they tap their non-dominant forearm just below the elbow.
3. West Coast Variant
On the West Coast, you may come across a variant where the number “one” sign is modified by using a closed fist rather than an extended index, middle, and thumb. The closed fist taps against the non-dominant forearm, much like the informal finger tap sign.
Remember, regional variations may not be widespread, and it’s crucial to remain open to different possibilities while focusing on effective communication and understanding.
Conclusion
Mastering the signs for different time-related concepts allows for clear communication in American Sign Language (ASL). In a formal context, signing “one minute” involves using the ASL sign for the number “one.” However, in informal situations, variations such as the finger tap sign can be used. While regional variations exist, it’s important to prioritize effective communication and adapt to the signing style of the individuals you are conversing with. By familiarizing yourself with both formal and informal signs for “one minute” in ASL, you’ll become better equipped to engage with the deaf and hard of hearing community, fostering inclusivity and understanding.
