Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “restaurant” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are a beginner or someone who wants to expand their knowledge of signs, this guide will provide a step-by-step explanation of how to express this word in various contexts, from formal to informal settings. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Restaurant” in ASL
When communicating in a formal setting, it’s important to use appropriate language and signs. Here are two common ways to say “restaurant” in a formal context:
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Sign: “R” (Fingerspelling)
When you fingerspell “R-E-S-T-A-U-R-A-N-T” in ASL, it is understood and widely used to refer to a restaurant. While fingerspelling can be time-consuming, it is important to know this formal sign for clarity, especially when you are unsure of the specific restaurant sign in a regional variation of ASL.
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Sign: “RESTAURANT” (ASL Sign)
Another formal way to say “restaurant” in ASL directly is by using the ASL sign for it. To do this, start with your dominant hand flat, palm down, fingers spread slightly apart, and tap lightly on the back of your non-dominant hand, which is held flat and palm up. This sign mimics the concept of a table or counter where you might find food.
Informal Ways to Say “Restaurant” in ASL
In more casual or informal situations, you might come across different variations and colloquial signs used to refer to a restaurant. Here are some common informal ways to express the word “restaurant” in ASL:
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Sign: “EAT” + “PLACE” (ASL Sign)
In this informal and descriptive way, you combine the ASL signs for “EAT” and “PLACE.” Start by signing “EAT” – bring your open hand to your mouth twice, as if you are taking bites of food. Then, transition into the sign for “PLACE” – hold your non-dominant hand out, palm up, and tap the top of your dominant hand, which is shaped like a flattened “O.” This sign refers to a location where you can eat, which is how many informal conversations include the concept of a restaurant in ASL.
Sign: “FOOD” + “BUILDING” (ASL Sign)
Another informal way to express “restaurant” in ASL is by combining the signs for “FOOD” and “BUILDING.” Start with the sign for “FOOD” – bring your non-dominant hand up to your mouth and pretend to put food inside. Next, transition into the sign for “BUILDING” – make a roof-like shape with the index finger and thumb of your dominant hand and outline an imaginary building shape in front of you. This sign clearly conveys the idea of a place where you can find food.
Regional Variations
While ASL is the predominant sign language used in the United States, it’s essential to note that regional variations exist. This means that there may be additional signs used to convey “restaurant” depending on the specific geographic area. However, the formal and informal signs mentioned above are widely understood across the country.
Tips and Examples in Conversations
Here are some helpful tips and examples of how to incorporate the signs for “restaurant” into conversations:
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Tip 1: Combine the signs for “restaurant” with other signs to describe specific types of restaurants. For example, you can sign “ITALIAN” or “MEXICAN” before signing “RESTAURANT” to indicate the type of cuisine you are referring to.
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Tip 2: Use facial expressions and body language to convey nuances. Just like spoken language, ASL relies on non-manual markers to add meaning and context. Use your facial expressions, head movements, and body language to express the tone and emphasis of your conversations.
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Example Conversation:
Person A: What do you feel like eating tonight?
Person B: How about an ITALIAN RESTAURANT? I’m craving pasta!
Person A: Sure, may I suggest this local pizza place? It’s fantastic!
In the conversation example above, “ITALIAN RESTAURANT” emphasizes the specific type of cuisine Person B is suggesting, while the mention of a “local pizza place” showcases a colloquial way of indicating a restaurant.
Congratulations on completing this guide on how to say “restaurant” in ASL! Remember, formal and informal signs can vary, but the ones provided here are widely recognized. Keep practicing and feel free to explore regional variations as you expand your ASL vocabulary. The more you utilize ASL signs regularly, the more proficient you will become in expressing yourself in this beautiful language!
