Greetings! Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “own” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are interested in using the formal or informal sign for “own,” we have got you covered! In this guide, we will explore various ways to express the concept of ownership, provide regional variations if necessary, and offer helpful tips and examples along the way. So let’s dive in and expand your ASL vocabulary!
Table of Contents
Formal Sign for “Own” in ASL
When it comes to expressing ownership in formal ASL, you can utilize a specific sign or a combination of signs to convey the intended meaning. Here is a formal sign commonly used:
1. Formal Sign for “Own”
The formal sign for “own” in ASL involves using the pointer finger of the dominant hand to touch the chest near the heart. This gesture symbolizes the concept of ownership as something personal and close to oneself. It is important to maintain a neutral facial expression while performing this sign, ensuring clarity in communication.
Tip: Remember to make the sign smoothly and avoid jabbing or poking your chest. Maintain a relaxed and natural motion to convey the meaning effectively.
Informal Signs for “Own” in ASL
Informal signs are commonly used among friends, family, or within specific communities. These signs might vary slightly based on regional or cultural differences. Here are a few informal signs to say “own” in ASL:
1. Informal Sign for “Own” (Variation 1)
Informally, you can express ownership by using a similar gesture to the formal sign. However, instead of touching the chest, your dominant hand’s pointer finger points towards your body at about the height of your waist. This variation is often used in casual conversations or familiar settings.
2. Informal Sign for “Own” (Variation 2)
Another informal sign for “own” in ASL involves using the open handshape of the dominant hand with the palm facing upward and close to your chest. Then, move your hand in a small circular motion while keeping it in the same position. This sign mimics the idea of embracing or holding onto something personally.
Tip: Informal signs can often vary among different communities or regions. If you notice variation within your specific ASL community, adapt to the signs used by those around you. This will help ensure effective communication and engagement.
Examples and Usage
Now that we have explored the formal and informal signs for “own” in ASL, let’s dive into some examples of how they can be used in sentences:
1. Formal Usage Example
In a formal context, such as discussing legal matters or in a professional setting, you might say:
Interviewer: “Who does this book belong to?”
You: *Performing the formal sign for “own”* “This book is mine. I own it.”
Interviewer: “Great, thank you for clarifying.”
2. Informal Usage Example
In a casual conversation among friends, you might express ownership informally in the following way:
Friend: “I love your new car! Is it yours?”
You: *Using an informal sign for “own” variation 2* “Yes, it’s mine. I’ve been enjoying it a lot!”
Friend: “That’s awesome! Can I take it for a spin?”
You: *Smiling and nodding* “Sure, go ahead!”
Regional Variations
While ASL is a standardized language, some regional variations or preferences may exist. It is always important to be mindful of the specific signing community you are engaging with. If you notice any regional differences in the signs for “own,” try to adapt and use the signs commonly understood within that particular community.
Recap and Final Tips
In summary, expressing the concept of “own” in ASL involves both formal and informal signs. The formal sign includes touching the chest near the heart, while informal signs may include variations such as pointing towards the body or using a circular hand motion close to the chest. Remember the following key tips:
- Ensure a smooth and natural execution of the signs.
- Maintain a relaxed facial expression for clear communication.
- Adapt to any regional or community-specific signs you encounter.
- Be mindful of the context and level of formality when choosing which sign to use.
By incorporating these tips and practicing with members of the deaf community, you will become more confident in expressing the concept of “own” in ASL. The more you engage with the language and its sign variations, the better you will become at communicating effectively and understanding different signing styles.
Best of luck on your ASL journey! Open your hands, embrace the culture, and enjoy the beauty of this visual language!
