Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “started” in American Sign Language (ASL). ASL is a vibrant and expressive language, and understanding how to convey the concept of “started” through signing is a valuable skill. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express “started” in ASL, and we’ll provide tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Started” in ASL
When it comes to formal ASL, there are various ways to convey the concept of “started” depending on the specific context. Here are a few formal signs and techniques you can use:
1. Chronological Sign Placement
One common way to express “started” in a formal setting is through the use of chronological sign placement. By starting your signing from a specific point and moving forward, you can indicate the beginning of an action or event. For example, when telling a story, you can begin a sign at one location and progress through the subsequent signs to create a sense of “starting.”
2. Initialized Signs
Another formal method is the use of initialized signs. These signs involve using the first letter of an English word as the handshape for the corresponding ASL sign. For “started,” you may use an “S” handshape combined with a movement that suggests initiation or commencement.
Informal Ways to Say “Started” in ASL
Informal ASL allows for more creative and expressive ways of conveying the concept of “started.” Here are a few informal signing techniques you can employ:
1. Facial Expressions
In informal ASL, facial expressions play a significant role in conveying the meaning of “started.” By combining appropriate facial expressions, such as raised eyebrows or widened eyes, with your signing, you can emphasize the beginning of an action or event in a more casual and engaging manner.
2. Body Movements
Informal ASL often incorporates body movements to enhance the message. When signing “started,” you can use a slight forward motion with your body to show the initiation of an action or event. This fluid movement adds excitement and dynamism to your communication.
Example Sentences
Let’s now explore some example sentences to demonstrate how the concept of “started” can be expressed using ASL:
Example 1: I started learning ASL last year. (formal)
In a formal context, you can begin signing “LEARN” from a specific location, such as your shoulder, and then move forward to indicate the initiation of the learning process.
Example 2: The movie started with an exciting scene. (informal)
In an informal setting, you can use a slight forward body movement combined with raised eyebrows and widened eyes to convey the excitement of the movie starting.
Regional Variations
In ASL, regional variations can sometimes occur due to cultural and linguistic influences. While the concept of “started” is generally understood universally, slight variations in signing techniques or preferences may exist between different regions. It’s always a good idea to be open to learning from and adapting to local signing norms when communicating with individuals from different ASL communities.
Tips for Effective Signing
Here are a few tips to enhance your signing skills when expressing “started” in ASL:
- Practice smooth and fluid motions to convey the sense of initiation.
- Pay attention to your facial expressions and use them to add emotional depth to your signing.
- Study ASL storytelling techniques to develop a better understanding of how to convey “started” within a narrative context.
- Take advantage of online resources, such as ASL dictionaries and video tutorials, to master specific signs and techniques.
Remember, signing “started” is not just about the physical gestures, but also about conveying the emotions and energy behind the concept. By practicing regularly and immersing yourself in the rich culture of ASL, you’ll become more confident and fluent in expressing “started” in various contexts.
We hope this guide has been helpful in expanding your knowledge of ASL and enhancing your signing abilities. Embrace the beauty of ASL and explore the countless possibilities for expressing “started” and other concepts within this captivating language.
