Greetings in sign language, just like spoken language, are an important social convention. Knowing how to say “See you soon” in American Sign Language (ASL) allows you to bid farewell or let someone know you hope to meet again in the near future. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to express this sentiment. While regional variations exist, we will focus on the widely used ASL signs to ensure clarity and understanding.
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Formal Ways to Say “See You Soon” in ASL
When in formal settings or interacting with individuals you might not be familiar with, it’s crucial to convey respect. Here are some formal ways to say “See you soon” in ASL:
1. The Classic Wave
The most common and universally understood way to express “See you soon” in ASL is by waving your hand goodbye. Perform a slow and deliberate wave with your palm facing outward. This gesture is polite and appropriate for any formal or informal setting. Remember to maintain eye contact to ensure the message is clear.
2. Waving with a Smile and Head Nod
Enhancing the classic wave with a warm smile and a slight nod of the head adds an extra touch of formality and friendliness. This additional body language conveys a genuine desire to meet again soon. Remember to maintain a relaxed posture while performing the wave, as it will make you more approachable and pleasant.
Informal Ways to Say “See You Soon” in ASL
When interacting with friends, family, or colleagues in more casual or familiar settings, you can opt for these informal ways to express “See you soon” in ASL:
1. “See You Later” – Index Finger Point
Informally, saying “See you soon” can be replaced with “See you later” in ASL. To sign this phrase, point your index finger at the person or group briefly, then perform a casual wave while smiling. This sign is commonly used among friends and peers.
2. “Bye for Now” – Crossing Arms and Tapping Shoulders
Another informal way to say “See you soon” is to sign “Bye for now” in ASL. Cross your arms in front of your chest with one hand tapping the opposite shoulder simultaneously. While doing so, maintain an upbeat facial expression to convey your eagerness to meet again soon.
Additional Tips and Examples
Here are some extra tips and examples to help you perfect your “See you soon” sign in ASL:
Tips:
- When greeting or saying goodbye in ASL, always make sure you have the other person’s attention by subtly establishing eye contact.
- Remember to maintain a warm and approachable expression while signing, as it conveys genuine enthusiasm and friendliness.
- If you are unsure about the appropriate formality level, it’s generally safer to lean towards being more formal, especially when meeting new people or in professional settings.
Examples:
Meeting a friend at a coffee shop:
FRIEND: Hey! It was great catching up. See you soon!
YOU: Definitely, see you later! (Index finger point wave)
Saying goodbye to a colleague after a meeting:
COLLEAGUE: Good work today, see you soon!
YOU: Thank you! Bye for now! (Cross arms and tap shoulders)
Remember, while these signs are widely accepted and understood in ASL, it’s always a good idea to adapt to regional variations if you are aware of them. ASL is a dynamic language with some local variations, but the signs mentioned here should serve as a solid foundation for expressing “See you soon” in most contexts.
By familiarizing yourself with these formal and informal ways to say “See you soon” in ASL, you can confidently navigate social interactions and convey your intentions effectively. Practice often, maintain a warm tone, and remember to enjoy the wonderful world of ASL greetings.
