How to Say “Remember” in American Sign Language (ASL)

Learning to express the concept of “remember” in American Sign Language (ASL) is a valuable skill that can facilitate effective communication with the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. In ASL, expressions can be conveyed through a combination of handshapes, movements, facial expressions, and body language. Whether you want to use a formal or informal approach, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary knowledge to express “remember” in ASL accurately. Let’s delve into the different ways to say “remember” in ASL!

Formal Ways to Say “Remember” in ASL

When engaging in formal situations, such as giving a presentation or communicating with someone you have just met, it is essential to use more standardized ASL signs. Here are a few formal ways to convey the concept of “remember”:

1. The Most Common Sign: REMEMBER

The most commonly used sign for “remember” in formal ASL settings is the sign for “REMEMBER” itself. To sign this, follow these steps:

1. Start with both hands in a “flat” handshape with the palms facing each other, fingers together, and slightly curved.
2. Bring your hands forward a few inches while moving them up and down in a small bouncing motion.
3. This sign visually represents the idea of something being stored and recalled in the mind.

Remember to maintain a calm and focused facial expression, as it is crucial to convey your intentions accurately.

2. REMEMBER-MIND

Another formal sign for “remember” uses the combined signs for “REMEMBER” and “MIND.” Here’s how to perform this sign:

1. Begin by signing “REMEMBER” using the steps described above.
2. Next, transition into the sign for “MIND” by placing your dominant hand in a “flat” handshape near your temple and twisting it once.
3. This combination sign visually represents memories being stored in the mind.

Tip: When using the formal signs for “remember,” make sure to maintain appropriate eye contact and use a professional tone.

Informal Ways to Say “Remember” in ASL

In more casual settings, among friends or family, you can adapt the signs for “remember” to reflect a more relaxed and informal tone. Here are a few informal ways to convey “remember” in ASL:

1. FORGET-IT-NOT

One expressive and informal sign for “remember” is the combination of “FORGET” and “IT” with a final gesture representing “NOT forgetting.” Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by signing “FORGET” with your dominant hand by tapping your temple twice with an index finger.
2. Next, hold your nondominant hand slightly higher, in a “flat” handshape, and shake it side to side.
3. Bring both hands together, interlocking the fingers.
4. Lastly, move your interlocked hands outwards while opening them as if releasing the idea of “not forgetting.”

2. REMEMBER-FOREVER

Another informal sign for “remember” is the combination of the sign for “REMEMBER” followed by gesturing “FOREVER.” Here’s how to perform this sign:

1. Begin by signing the formal “REMEMBER” as mentioned earlier in this guide.
2. Then, transition to the sign for “FOREVER” by making a fist with your dominant hand and extending your pinkie finger outward toward the person or concept you want to remember.
3. This combination visually represents the intention of lasting memories.

Regional Variations

Generally, ASL follows a standardized structure across different regions, allowing for effective communication between ASL users worldwide. Nonetheless, slight variations may exist based on regional preferences or cultural influences. To ensure effective understanding, it’s always helpful to consult local resources or individuals familiar with regional ASL variations.

Practice Examples for “Remember” in ASL

To solidify your understanding of how to say “remember” in ASL, here are some practice examples:

• Example 1: Imagine you want to say, “Remember our plans for tomorrow.” Use the formal sign for REMEMBER, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming plans.
• Example 2: Now, in a more casual setting, you could sign, “Don’t forget to bring your guitar!” using the informal sign FORGET-IT-NOT. This conveys a relaxed and friendly tone.
• Example 3: When reminiscing with a friend, you might sign, “Remember that time we went hiking? It was unforgettable!” Here, the informal sign REMEMBER-FOREVER expresses the lasting memories of the hiking experience.

In Conclusion

Remember that mastering ASL takes time, practice, and a respectful approach to Deaf culture. By applying the information provided in this guide, you’re on your way to expressing “remember” in both formal and informal ASL contexts. Continuously practice your signing skills, seek local resources, and engage with the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community to enhance your fluency and understanding of ASL. With dedication and persistence, you’ll gain the confidence to effectively communicate and connect with others through this vibrant visual language.