Learning to express the word “read” in American Sign Language (ASL) opens up a whole new world of communication for individuals with hearing impairments. ASL is a rich and expressive language that uses hand movements, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “read” in ASL, both formally and informally, while providing tips, examples, and regional considerations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Read” in ASL
1. The initial method to indicate “read” in ASL is by borrowing the general sign for “write” and modifying it slightly. To perform this sign:
Tips: Hold your dominant hand out, palm down, with the fingers extended and the thumb tucked. Start near your non-dominant hand and sweep your dominant hand forward, moving past your non-dominant hand’s fingertips.
Example: “I need to read this book for my literature class.”
2. Another formal way to express “read” in ASL is by signing “understand” or “comprehend.” To do this:
Tips: Hold your dominant hand out, palm up, fingers together and slightly bent. Then, bring your hand towards your body while making a slight twisting motion.
Example: “After studying for hours, I finally understood what the article was about.”
Informal Ways to Say “Read” in ASL
1. One informal variation of expressing “read” in ASL is to use the initialized sign for “read.” To perform this sign:
Tips: Place your non-dominant hand flat, palm up, fingers extended and slightly bent. Take your dominant index finger and tap it twice on your non-dominant palm.
Example: “I read that cool article you shared on social media.”
2. Another casual way to indicate “read” in ASL is by using the sign for “scan.” To do this:
Tips: Hold your dominant hand out, palm down, with the fingers touching and slightly spread apart. Move your hand quickly across the page or screen as if your fingers were skimming over the text.
Example: “I scanned through the magazine and found an interesting article.”
Regional Variations in ASL
While ASL is a standardized language, there might be slight regional variations in signs for “read” due to differences in dialects or preferences among the Deaf community. It is always essential to stay open and receptive to regional differences when using ASL. Remember that being respectful of diverse signing styles is crucial for effective communication.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the various ways to say “read” in ASL allows you to communicate fluently in different contexts and with a range of interlocutors. Whether you are using a more formal sign to indicate comprehension or an informal sign related to scanning or understanding, these signs enable you to express yourself effectively through ASL. Embrace the richness and diversity of ASL as you practice and interact with the Deaf community. Happy signing!
