Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “proceed” in sign language! Whether you are in a formal or informal setting, knowing how to communicate this word using sign language can be incredibly useful. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “proceed,” provide tips and examples, and even touch upon regional variations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Proceed” in Sign Language
When it comes to formal sign language, it’s important to adhere to established conventions and ensure clarity in your communication. Here are a few formal ways to convey the word “proceed” in sign language:
1. American Sign Language (ASL)
ASL is one of the most widely used sign languages in North America. To depict “proceed” formally in ASL, you can use the sign for “go” accompanied by a forward hand movement.
For example, you can sign “go” by forming your dominant hand into a loose fist with your index finger extended forward, as if pointing in the direction you want to go. Then, make a gentle, fluid motion of moving your hand forward, indicating the act of proceeding.
2. British Sign Language (BSL)
In BSL, the formal sign for “proceed” involves the use of the sign for “continue” combined with a gesture indicating forward movement.
To depict “continue” in BSL, form your non-dominant hand into a flat, palm-down position. Then, with your dominant hand, create a fist with your thumb extended upward. Place the thumb of your dominant hand against the palm of your non-dominant hand and make a gentle pushing motion forward, symbolizing the act of proceeding.
Informal Ways to Say “Proceed” in Sign Language
Informal sign language can be more relaxed and may involve regional variations and unique expressions. Here are a couple of informal ways to convey “proceed” using sign language:
1. Regional Informal Variation: Auslan (Australian Sign Language)
In Auslan, the informal sign for “proceed” involves placing your non-dominant hand with fingers slightly apart in front of you, palm facing up. Then, with your dominant hand, make a quick and deliberate motion of pushing your non-dominant hand forward, indicating the act of moving forward or proceeding.
2. Generic Informal Variation
In informal sign language settings where there are no specific regional variations, you can use a more general approach. One way to convey “proceed” informally is by making a sweeping motion with your dominant hand from left to right or vice versa, indicating the act of continuing or moving forward.
Tips and Examples
Now that we have explored various formal and informal ways to say “proceed” in sign language, let’s share some tips and examples to help you further understand and practice:
Tips:
- Remember to maintain eye contact and ensure your signs are clear and intentional.
- Focus on the movement and expression of your hands to convey the meaning effectively.
- Practice in front of a mirror or with a fluent sign language user to refine your signing skills.
Examples:
1. In a formal setting, such as a professional conference, you can use ASL by signing “go” with a forward hand motion to indicate “proceed” when addressing the audience.
2. When informally discussing plans with friends, you can utilize the sweeping motion from the generic informal variation to indicate “proceed” and convey the idea of moving forward with your conversation.
3. In a casual setting where Auslan is commonly used, you can adopt the regional informal variation and demonstrate the pushing motion in front of your palm to signify “proceed.”
Remember, mastery of sign language takes time and practice. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from qualified sign language instructors, join signing communities, and immerse yourself in sign language conversations to enhance your skills and fluency.
