How to Say “Outside” in American Sign Language (ASL)

Gaining proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) is an invaluable skill for communication with the Deaf community. If you’re looking to learn how to express the concept of “outside” in ASL, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to sign “outside.” Let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Sign “Outside” in ASL

When signing “outside” formally in ASL, you can use the sign for “out” followed by the sign for “side.” Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of this formal sign:

1. Start with both hands relaxed and at chest height, palms facing inwards.
2. Extend both arms forward and slightly away from your body, keeping your palms facing downward.
3. Separate your hands, sweeping them towards either side of your body in a controlled motion. This represents the sign for “out.”
4. Next, keep your non-dominant hand in place and bring your dominant hand to the side of your non-dominant hand, gently touching your non-dominant thumb. This gesture signifies the sign for “side.”

This formal sign for “outside” in ASL is easily recognizable and widely understood in the Deaf community. Remember to maintain a relaxed and confident demeanor while signing to effectively express yourself.

Informal Ways to Sign “Outside” in ASL

ASL, like any language, has informal variations. In everyday conversations, you may come across different signing strategies for “outside.” Here are a few informal ways the concept is commonly expressed:

• Open Palm Gesture: One casual way to convey “outside” in ASL is by using an open palm gesture. Simply extend your non-dominant hand forward and rotate it, keeping your palm facing outward. This simple gesture signifies the idea of being outside.
• Pointing Beyond: Another informal method is to point in the direction of the outside, beyond your current location. You can use your index finger or multiple fingers, depending on personal preference or regional variation. Keep your arm extended and your fingers pointing away from your body to indicate “outside.”
• Index Finger Tap: Some ASL users tap their index finger against their opposite palm as a shorthand way to convey “outside.” This quick tap can be interpreted as a reference to leaving the sheltered indoors and venturing outdoors.

Remember, informal variations of signs can vary from region to region or even within different Deaf communities. The key is to adapt and learn from your interactions with fluent signers to expand your ASL repertoire.

Tips to Enhance Your “Outside” Signing in ASL

Here are a few helpful tips to enhance your “outside” signing in ASL:

1. Facial Expressions: Like spoken language, facial expressions play an essential role in ASL. When signing “outside,” ensure your facial expression conveys the appropriate sentiment. A relaxed and open expression will help emphasize your message.
2. Movement: Pay attention to the fluidity and movement of your signs. Smooth and controlled gestures enhance your signing experience and make it easier for others to understand.
3. Context: Remember that ASL relies on context. To indicate “outside” in a clearer manner, you can incorporate additional signs like “go,” “walk,” or “nature,” depending on the context of your conversation. This enriches the meaning and helps create a more comprehensive message.
4. Practice: Regular practice is crucial for building proficiency in ASL. Find opportunities to engage with members of the Deaf community, watch ASL videos, or join sign language classes or conversation groups to refine your skills.

Examples of “Outside” in ASL

Imagine you’re at a picnic with a group of Deaf friends, and you want to suggest going outside to enjoy the pleasant weather together. You can sign “let’s go outside” using a combination of signs. Start with the sign for “let’s” by making a circular motion with both hands, then transition smoothly into the formal sign for “outside” by signing “out” followed by “side.”

In another scenario, you might be discussing your weekend plans with a Deaf colleague, and you mention your intention to explore a local hiking trail. To convey your excitement, you can use the informal open palm gesture for “outside” while talking about your upcoming adventure.

Remember, practice and exposure to ASL in real-life situations will help you develop a strong understanding of the language and its nuances.

Now that you have learned both formal and informal ways to express “outside” in ASL, take the opportunity to practice and immerse yourself in the Deaf community. Cultivating a warm and respectful attitude towards sign language will facilitate meaningful interactions and connections.

Enjoy your ASL journey and the incredible beauty of being able to communicate using sign language!