Welcome to our comprehensive guide on expressing the word “plus” in sign language. Whether you’re looking to communicate math equations, join conversations, or simply expand your sign language skills, this guide will teach you formal and informal ways to express “plus” in sign language. We’ll provide tips, examples, and cover regional variations if necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Plus” in Sign Language
To convey “plus” in a formal context, such as during academic or professional discussions, you can use the following signs:
1. The Addition Sign:
The most common and universal sign for “plus” resembles the act of combining two things. Here’s how you can perform it:
Place the fingertips of one hand together, facing upwards, and then bring your other hand’s fingertips on top of the first hand’s fingertips, as if you were adding something to the first group.
This sign effectively conveys “plus” in a clear and understandable manner, making it ideal for formal settings.
2. Mathematical Symbol:
If you’re discussing math concepts or equations, you may choose to incorporate the mathematical symbol for “plus” into your signing. Provide context by using facial expressions and body language to indicate that you’re referring to an addition operation.
Informal Ways to Say “Plus” in Sign Language
For casual conversations or everyday usage, you can employ more relaxed signs for “plus”. Although not as formal, these signs are widely recognized and used within the deaf community. Here are a few examples:
1. Tap and Move:
Simply tap your fingertips of one hand onto the palm of your other hand, then move your hands together. This mimics the idea of adding something on top of another.
2. Drawing a Plus Sign:
Create a plus sign in the air using your index finger. Begin by drawing a horizontal line from left to right, followed by a vertical line intersecting the horizontal line at the center.
Regional Variations
The signs mentioned above are widely understood across regions. However, it’s important to note that signing can have slight variations based on location. If you notice any differences while interacting with individuals from different regions, adapt and learn from them to enhance your signing skills and cultural understanding.
Tips for Learning and Using “Plus” in Sign Language
Here are a few helpful tips and suggestions to effectively learn and apply “plus” in sign language:
1. Practice Familiarizing Your Hands:
Take time to familiarize yourself with the various handshapes required for each sign. Regular practice will improve your dexterity and fluency in signing “plus” and other related concepts.
2. Seek Feedback:
If possible, connect with members of the deaf community or sign language instructors who can provide feedback on your signing, correcting any inaccuracies or inconsistencies to ensure clear communication.
Examples of Using “Plus” in Sign Language
1. Academic Context:
During a math class, you can sign “2 plus 3 equals 5” using the addition sign, making clear movements and facial expressions to denote the equation.
2. Casual Conversation:
When chatting with a friend about planning activities, you can sign “movie plus dinner” using the tap and move sign to suggest combining the two activities.
3. Professional Environment:
In a business meeting, you might discuss a project timeline and sign “Monday plus Tuesday equals two days” using the addition sign and emphasizing facial expressions to ensure clarity.
Congratulations! You’ve now learned different ways to say “plus” in sign language. Remember to practice regularly and seek opportunities to use sign language with others. By doing so, you’ll not only enhance your signing skills but also foster inclusivity and communication within the deaf community. Keep up the great work!
