Welcome to our guide on how to express “slow down” in American Sign Language (ASL). In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this concept in ASL. While there may be slight regional variations, we will focus on the general ASL signs for “slow down.” So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Slow Down” in ASL
When you want to communicate a formal request for someone to slow down, you can use the following sign:
1. Palm Facing Down Sign: Begin by extending your dominant hand with the palm facing down, fingers together and pointing forward. Then, move your hand downward with a gentle and deliberate motion.
This sign indicates a polite and formal request for someone to decelerate or decrease their speed. It can be used in various situations such as when someone is speaking too quickly or when you need more time to process information.
Informal Way to Say “Slow Down” in ASL
If you want to convey a more informal or casual request for someone to slow down, you can use the following sign:
2. Palm Graze Sign: Hold your non-dominant hand flat and stationary in front of you. Then, use the fingertips of your dominant hand to gently graze the palm of the non-dominant hand from the base to the fingertips.
This sign is generally used among friends, family, or in relaxed social settings. It carries a friendly and less formal tone, indicating a desire for the person to take things at a more leisurely pace.
Tips and Examples
Now that you are familiar with the formal and informal signs for “slow down” in ASL, let’s explore some tips and examples to help you incorporate this concept into your signing vocabulary.
1. Speed Variation
ASL allows for variation in signing speed to convey different levels of urgency. When using either the formal or informal sign for “slow down,” you can adjust your signing speed to match the context. Slowing down your signing can express a greater need for the person to decelerate.
Example:
If you want to politely ask your friend to slow down while they are telling a story, you can use the formal sign but slow down your signing speed to show a higher level of urgency: palm facing down sign (slowly).
2. Facial Expressions
In ASL, facial expressions are crucial for conveying meaning and emotion. When signing “slow down,” you can enhance your message by using appropriate facial expressions such as concern, concentration, or relaxation, depending on the context.
Example:
If you’re asking someone to slow down while they’re explaining a complex concept, use a concerned facial expression along with the formal sign for greater effect.
3. Nodding/Vocal Cues
In combination with the signs, nodding your head slowly or adding vocal cues like “slow down” can reinforce your request or reinforce the importance of slowing down.
Example:
If you’re teaching a sign language class and want your students to understand a specific sign, you can sign “slow down” while saying “slow down” verbally and nodding your head.
4. Contextual Gestures
Depending on the specific situation, you can use additional contextual gestures to reinforce your message. For instance, you can extend your non-dominant hand forward and make a horizontal “slow down” gesture with your flat palm while signing.
Example:
If you’re communicating with someone who is driving too fast, you can use the informal sign for “slow down,” combine it with the horizontal gesture, and use a concerned facial expression to convey the urgency and importance of reducing speed.
Remember, context and non-manual markers play significant roles in ASL, so adapt your signing accordingly to fit the situation.
Incorporating “Slow Down” into Your ASL Vocabulary
Now that you possess a solid understanding of the formal and informal signs for “slow down” in ASL, it’s time to practice incorporating this concept into your signing vocabulary. The more you use and interact with the language, the more comfortable and natural it will become.
Consider practicing with friends, watching ASL videos, or joining sign language clubs to enhance your skills. Remember, signing is a visual language, so focus on clarity, expression, and fluency.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing our comprehensive guide on how to say “slow down” in ASL. You now have the tools to communicate this concept both formally and informally in sign language. Remember to adapt your signing speed, use appropriate facial expressions, nodding/vocal cues, and contextual gestures to convey the desired meaning effectively.
Continue exploring ASL, practicing with others, and adding new signs to your vocabulary. Signing is a wonderful way to connect with the Deaf community and bridge communication gaps across cultures.
Happy signing and remember to slow down and enjoy the journey!
