Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to express the concept of “recently” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are a beginner or have some experience in ASL, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to convey the idea of recent events. We will cover various tips and examples to help you effectively communicate this concept in ASL. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Sign “Recently” in ASL
When expressing “recently” formally in ASL, you can use specific signs and facial expressions to convey the concept. Here are some formal ways to sign “recently” in ASL:
- Sign: NOW
Description: Make the sign for “now” by holding your non-dominant hand in a flat palm and using your dominant hand to tap the center of your non-dominant palm twice. Simultaneously, add a slight leaning forward motion with your upper body to convey the idea of something happening or finishing just a short time ago.
Example: “I just finished eating” – (Signed while tapping the center of the non-dominant palm) “NOW EAT FINISH.” - Sign: PAST FEW DAYS
Description: Combine the sign for “past” with the sign for “few days.” For the sign “past,” move your dominant hand in a backward motion over your shoulder. For “few days,” use your non-dominant hand as a classifier to indicate a small number of days, moving it in an upward motion near your chest.
Example: “I traveled in the past few days” – (Signed while moving your dominant hand in a backward motion over your shoulder) “PAST FEW DAYS TRAVEL.”
Informal Ways to Sign “Recently” in ASL
When signing “recently” informally in ASL, you have the flexibility to use various signs and gestures that are commonly understood among the ASL community. Here are some informal ways to sign “recently” in ASL:
- Use Facial Expressions
Description: Pair your signing with appropriate facial expressions to convey the concept of “recently.” You can furrow your eyebrows slightly, tilt your head, and use a questioning expression to indicate something that happened not long ago.
Example: While signing “finished,” add a slight facial expression indicating uncertainty or introspection to convey the idea of recently completing something. - Fingerspelling: R-E-C-E-N-T-L-Y
Description: Fingerspell the word “recently” using the ASL manual alphabet. Make sure to maintain natural finger movements and spell the letters clearly.
Example: “I bought a new car recently” – (Fingerspelling) “I BOUGHT NEW CAR R-E-C-E-N-T-L-Y.”
Tips for Effective Communication
Here are some tips to enhance your communicative skills while signing “recently” in ASL:
- Practice Facial Expressions: Mastering facial expressions can significantly enhance your ASL communication. Practice conveying different emotions, such as surprise, curiosity, or relief, in combination with the signs for “recently.”
- Be Mindful of Signing Space: Maintain appropriate signing space for clarity. Ensure that your signs are not too close or too far from your body, allowing others to easily understand your message.
- Fluency in Natural Gestures: Alongside formal signs, ASL incorporates natural gestures to enhance communication. Observe native signers, pay attention to their use of natural gestures, and incorporate them into your signing.
- Attending ASL Classes or Workshops: Consider enrolling in ASL classes or attending workshops to improve your fluency. Connecting with the Deaf community and practicing with native signers can greatly enhance your signing skills and understanding of cultural nuances.
Remember, ASL is a rich and dynamic language, and the meaning of signs can vary depending on context, region, and individual preferences. It’s essential to continue learning, practicing, and engaging with the Deaf community to deepen your understanding of ASL.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned various formal and informal ways to sign “recently” in ASL. Remember, effective communication involves not only mastering signs but also facial expressions, natural gestures, and cultural elements within the Deaf community. Continue exploring ASL, attending classes or workshops, and connecting with the Deaf community to further enhance your signing proficiency.
By incorporating these tips and examples into your signing, you will be able to effectively express the concept of “recently” in ASL. Embrace the beauty and inclusivity of ASL, and enjoy your journey into this remarkable language!
