Welcome to our guide on how to say “slow” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you’re learning ASL to communicate with a family member, friend, or colleague, knowing how to sign “slow” can be extremely useful. In this guide, we will cover both the formal and informal ways of expressing “slow” in ASL, while also providing helpful tips, examples, and addressing any regional variations that might exist. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Sign for Slow in ASL
When you want to convey the formal meaning of “slow” in ASL, you can use the following sign:
Sign: Put your non-dominant hand in front of your chest, palm facing inward, with fingers extended and touching each other. With your dominant hand, extend your index finger and middle finger, brushing them against your non-dominant palm from top to bottom in a slow and deliberate manner.
Explanation: The sign for “slow” in formal ASL mimics the action of something moving at a slow pace. The deliberate downward movement of the fingers against the palm signifies the concept of slowness.
Informal Sign for Slow in ASL
When you want to express “slow” in a more informal context, such as when conversing with friends or in casual situations, you can use the following variations:
- Sign Variation 1: Hold your hand up with palm facing sideways and fingers extended but relaxed. Move your hand slowly back and forth in front of your body. This sign is often used to convey a relaxed pace or a request for someone to slow down.
- Sign Variation 2: With your non-dominant hand extended in front of your body, make a fist with your dominant hand, thumb resting on your non-dominant palm. Move your dominant hand in a circular motion on top of your non-dominant hand, signifying a slow and steady movement.
Tips for Accurate Signing
To ensure clear and accurate communication when signing “slow” in ASL, here are some helpful tips:
1. Pacing
When signing “slow,” remember to maintain a slow and deliberate pace while signing. This not only helps convey the meaning more effectively but also ensures clarity in your signing.
2. Facial Expressions
Facial expressions play a vital role in ASL. To emphasize the concept of slowness, adopt a relaxed facial expression and use a slightly exaggerated, calm and gentle nod while signing “slow.”
Examples
Let’s see the sign for “slow” in different contexts through some examples:
Example 1
Imagine you are teaching a friend how to sign “slow” in ASL. You can say:
When conveying “slow” formally, use the sign that involves moving your dominant fingers downward against your non-dominant palm. It represents slowness in a clear and concise manner.
Example 2
Now, let’s explore the informal variation of signing “slow” in a sentence:
If you want to say “Take it slow,” use the second variation by circling your dominant hand on top of your non-dominant hand with a gentle and steady motion. This sign suggests a relaxed and steady pace.
Regional Variations
In ASL, regional variations may exist, but the sign for “slow” described above is widely understood across the United States. It’s always beneficial to seek guidance from local ASL communities or instructors if you encounter any regional variations.
Final Thoughts
Mastering how to say “slow” in ASL opens up opportunities for effective communication and inclusivity. Remember to practice the signs regularly while focusing on accuracy, pacing, and utilizing appropriate facial expressions. By doing so, you’ll enhance your signing skills and foster better connections within the ASL community. Enjoy your exciting journey to fluency in American Sign Language!
