Welcome to your comprehensive guide on how to say “survive” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are a beginner or have some knowledge of ASL, this guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to express the concept of surviving. While ASL itself does not have regional variations, I will highlight any necessary regional or cultural considerations. Let’s dive in and learn how to sign “survive” in ASL!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Sign “Survive” in ASL
When you want to convey the formal meaning of “survive” in ASL, there are a few signs you can use. Remember to keep your movements clear and precise to ensure accurate communication:
- Sign: “LIVE THROUGH”
Hold both open hands in front of you, palms facing down. Move your hands inward, towards your body, as if you are encompassing yourself. This sign signifies “living through” or “surviving” a specific experience or situation.
- Sign: “ENDURE”
Place both of your hands in front of you, palms facing down with your fingers slightly apart. Move your hands forward in a steady and firm motion, symbolizing enduring difficulties or challenges.
- Sign: “WITHSTAND”
Hold both hands open, palms facing up, in front of you. Push your hands forward slightly, as if you are resisting a force. This sign reflects the idea of persevering and withstanding challenging circumstances.
Informal Ways to Sign “Survive” in ASL
If you are in a more casual setting or want to convey a less formal meaning of “survive” in ASL, here are a couple of signs to utilize:
- Sign: “MAKE IT”
Hold one hand up, palm facing your body, and move it upward in a semi-circular motion. This sign signifies “making it” through a situation or successfully navigating a challenge.
- Sign: “GET THROUGH”
Cross both hands in front of your body, palms facing down, and move them forward simultaneously. This sign conveys the idea of “getting through” or coming out successfully on the other side of a difficult experience.
Tips for Accurate Communication
As you learn how to say “survive” in ASL, consider these tips to enhance your communication skills:
- Practice Facial Expressions
In ASL, facial expressions play a crucial role in conveying meaning and emoting. Pay attention to your facial expressions while signing “survive” to ensure your message is accurately conveyed.
- Clear and Fluid Movements
Maintaining clear and fluid movements is vital when signing in ASL. Be mindful of your handshape, hand placement, and the trajectory of your movements to convey your message effectively.
- Body Language
Body language complements ASL and adds depth to your signing. Use appropriate body language, such as posture and gestures, to enhance your message when signing “survive.”
Examples of Using “Survive” in ASL
Here are a few examples of how to incorporate the signs for “survive” in ASL into sentences:
Example: “After facing a harrowing experience, I was able to live through it.”
Example: “She showed immense strength and endured the toughest challenges in life.”
Example: “Despite all odds, they withstood the adversity and came out stronger.”
Example: “With her resilience, she managed to make it through the most trying times.”
Example: “We need to support each other to get through difficult situations.”
Remember, practice and immersion are key to becoming proficient in ASL. Engage with the Deaf community, watch ASL videos, and continue to expand your signing vocabulary.
Now that you have learned how to say “survive” in ASL using both formal and informal signs, continue exploring the beautiful language and culture of ASL. Enjoy your journey and keep spreading positivity and inclusivity through ASL!
