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

Gaining the ability to express concepts and ideas in American Sign Language (ASL) opens up a world of communication possibilities. One fundamental phrase in ASL is “she has,” which allows you to discuss possession or attribute ownership to someone else. In this guide, we’ll explore formal and informal ways to say “she has” in ASL, providing you with valuable tips, examples, and even a touch of regional variation.

Formal Way to Say “She Has”

Using ASL in a formal context often involves paying closer attention to grammar and structure. To express “she has” formally in ASL, follow these steps:

1. Start by signing “SHE” using the appropriate sign. This sign represents a female individual.
2. Next, sign “POSSESS” or “HAS” by extending your dominant hand forward in a relaxed fist, palm facing down, and then bring it back towards your body. This motion signifies someone in possession of something.
3. Finally, while signing “she” and “has,” be sure to maintain appropriate facial expressions to convey your message effectively.

For a clearer visual understanding, it’s highly recommended to study ASL tutorials online or refer to ASL dictionaries that provide video demonstrations for accurate signing.

Example:

If you wanted to express, “She has a book,” follow these steps:

1. Sign “SHE.”
2. Sign “POSSESS” or “HAS.”
3. While signing “she” and “has,” maintain a facial expression that conveys your message (e.g., a pleasant or neutral expression).

Note that in ASL, you would omit the article “a” or “an” when signing sentences. However, in English, it may be necessary to use articles to ensure grammatical completeness.

Informal Way to Say “She Has”

Informal or colloquial ASL allows for greater flexibility and may show variation depending on the region or individual. When expressing “she has” informally, there are alternative ways to convey the same meaning:

• Use a raised eyebrow to indicate possession: While signing “she,” lift your eyebrows slightly as if to say, “Look, she has it!” This informal method adds emphasis or surprise to the message.
• Sign “SHE” and then mime the item: Instead of using a specific sign for “has” or “possess,” you can simply sign “she” and then mime or gesture the action or object she possesses. This approach offers a more conversational and flexible way to express “she has” in informal settings.
• Combine the possessive form of the noun: In some informal scenarios, the ASL community may use the possessive form of the noun itself to express ownership. For example, signing “book” with the possessive marker to indicate “her book.” This method allows for a quicker expression of ownership in informal conversation.

Example:

In an informal context, you could sign “she” and then mime turning pages, indicating she has a book. Alternatively, if discussing a more specific item like “her phone,” you could sign “phone” while using the possessive marker on your non-dominant hand to indicate ownership.

TIP: Remember, when communicating in ASL, it’s essential to consider the cultural and regional variations that may exist within the language. Always remain open to learning different signs and techniques specific to the Deaf communities you encounter.

Moreover, consistently practicing ASL with native signers, attending events, watching ASL performances, and engaging with community centers are excellent ways to refine your skills and become more aware of these regional variations.

Conclusion

Mastering the concept of “she has” in ASL is crucial for effective communication. Whether you’re engaging in a formal conversation or embracing the nuances of informal signing, the ability to express possession in ASL brings clarity and versatility to your interactions. Remember to practice with native signers, stay open to regional variations, and enjoy the learning process!