How to Say “Supervisor” in ASL

Are you interested in learning how to say “supervisor” in American Sign Language (ASL)? Whether you need to communicate with a supervisor or want to expand your ASL vocabulary, this guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways to express this concept. While regional variations exist, we will focus on the most commonly used signs. Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of ASL and learn how to sign “supervisor”!

Formal Ways to Sign “Supervisor” in ASL

If you need to address your supervisor in a formal setting, such as a professional environment or during a formal meeting, there are several signs you can use to convey this concept respectfully:

1. Sign for “Super” followed by “Visor”: Begin by signing “super,” which involves extending both index fingers straight out. Then, take your dominant index finger and place it on top of your non-dominant index and middle fingers, forming the shape of a visor over your eyes. This sign represents the authoritative figure of a supervisor.
2. Sign for “Manager”: Another formal sign you can use for “supervisor” is the sign for “manager.” To do this, take your non-dominant hand with the palm facing down and the fingers slightly apart. Place your dominant hand, with the palm facing down and the fingers pointing forward, on top of your non-dominant hand and make a forward moving motion. This sign signifies the role of a supervisor overseeing a team.
3. Sign for “Leader”: You can also use the sign for “leader” to express the concept of a supervisor. For this sign, create an “L” shape with your non-dominant hand using the thumb and index finger. Then, place your dominant open hand on top of the “L” shape, with your palm facing down, and move it forward slightly. This sign conveys the leadership role inherent to a supervisor.

Informal Ways to Sign “Supervisor” in ASL

In more informal contexts, such as casual conversations or interactions with colleagues or friends, you can use these signs to refer to a “supervisor” in ASL:

1. Sign for “Boss”: One common way to refer to a supervisor informally is by using the sign for “boss.” This sign involves making a fist with your dominant hand and tapping it on the top of your non-dominant hand, which is horizontally positioned. This sign illustrates the hierarchical relationship between a supervisor and their subordinates.
2. Sign for “Head”: Another informal sign you can use to refer to a supervisor is the sign for “head.” Extend your non-dominant hand with the palm facing up, then place the pointer and middle fingers of your dominant hand on top of your non-dominant hand while keeping the other fingers extended. Gently tap the fingers of your dominant hand on the top of your non-dominant hand. This sign represents the person who is in charge, like a supervisor.
3. Sign for “Big”: The ASL sign for “big” can also be used as an informal way to refer to a supervisor. To sign “big,” use your dominant hand with all fingers extended and your palm facing down. Starting at shoulder height, move your hand downward, ending with your palm facing toward the floor. This sign emphasizes the position of authority held by a supervisor.

Tips and Examples

Here are some additional tips and examples to help you effectively communicate “supervisor” in ASL:

Be Mindful of Facial Expressions:

ASL not only involves hand movements but also facial expressions. When signing “supervisor,” ensure your facial expression matches the formality or informality of the context. Maintain a serious facial expression for formal settings, while a more relaxed and approachable expression can be used in informal contexts.

Practice Smooth Transitions:

Efficient signing requires smooth transitions between signs. To convey “supervisor” seamlessly, practice transitioning between signs such as “super” and “visor” smoothly. Smooth transitions enhance the clarity and flow of your signing.

Pay Attention to Signing Space:

When using signs like “super” and “visor,” it’s important to consider the signing space. Maintain a comfortable distance between your eyes and the shape of the visor you create to ensure the sign remains clear and visible to the viewer.

Example: In a formal meeting, you can say, “Our supervisor will be leading the project.” You would use the formal sign for “supervisor” by combining the signs for “super” and “visor.”

Use Facial Cues for Informal Contexts:

In informal situations, such as discussing work with colleagues, make use of appropriate facial cues to indicate informality. You can pair the informal signs for “boss,” “head,” or “big” with a smile or a relaxed expression to convey informality and friendliness.

Example: Chatting with a coworker, you might say, “The boss wants us to complete this task by Friday.” Employ the informal sign for “boss” by tapping your dominant fist on the top of your non-dominant horizontal hand.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have now learned how to say “supervisor” in ASL! Whether you find yourself in a formal or informal setting, you can use these signs to effectively convey the concept of a supervisor. Remember to practice your hand movements, facial expressions, and smooth transitions to master the art of signing. With these skills, you’ll be able to communicate with supervisors, colleagues, and friends in ASL, enriching your overall linguistic abilities.