American Sign Language (ASL) is a rich language used by the Deaf community in the United States. It enables individuals to communicate effectively using hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements. To learn how to say “tell” in ASL, both formally and informally, read on! We’ll also provide you with tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Tell” in ASL
When expressing the action “tell” in formal ASL, the sign consists of several components. Here’s how you can sign “tell” in a formal manner:
- Begin with your dominant hand flat, palm facing downwards.
- Position your hand near your lips, slightly raising and tilting it toward the side.
- Simultaneously make a gentle tapping motion with your hand.
- Finish by extending your hand forward, as if conveying information.
Example:
Imagine you want to sign the sentence “She told me.” in ASL. You would start by signing “she” (pointing to the person), followed by signing “tell” using the formal method described above, and ending with a facial expression that reflects understanding or receiving information.
Informal Way to Say “Tell” in ASL
For a more informal way to sign “tell” in ASL, you can use a simplified version of the formal sign. Here’s how:
- With your dominant hand, form a loose fist with your thumb on top.
- Bring your hand close to your mouth, near the side, while quickly opening and then closing your fist as if something is being released.
- After the quick motion, move your hand forward as if sharing information.
Example:
Let’s say you want to sign the sentence “I’ll tell you later.” in an informal way. Start by signing “I” (pointing to yourself), then use the informal sign for “tell” as described above, and finally sign “you” (pointing to the person) followed by the sign for “later.”
Tips for Accurate ASL Communication
1. Facial Expressions
Remember that facial expressions play a crucial role in expressing emotions and meaning in ASL. Use appropriate facial cues to convey the tone of “tell” based on the context or situation.
2. Body Language
Pay attention to your body language while signing. Maintain good posture, use natural and fluid movements, and ensure your signs are clear and distinguishable.
3. Practice and Learn from Deaf communities
To master ASL, it’s beneficial to interact and learn from the Deaf community. Attend ASL classes, join local Deaf events, or participate in online ASL forums to enhance your signing skills. Immersion is key to becoming proficient in any language.
Regional Variations
ASL is used across the United States, but some regional variations may exist. These variations can range from dialects to slight differences in signs. However, when signing “tell” in ASL, the gestures described above are commonly understood throughout the country.
“ASL is a vibrant and expressive language that embraces cultural diversity within its community. While minor regional variations may exist, the beauty of ASL lies in its universal accessibility and meaningful communication.” – John, ASL Instructor
Conclusion
In ASL, there are both formal and informal ways to express the concept of “tell.” The formal sign involves tapping your hand near your lips and extending it forward, while the informal sign is a quick motion of an open and closing fist. Remember to practice proper facial expressions, body language, and gesture clarity while signing. Additionally, learning from the Deaf community and immersing yourself in ASL will help you enhance your fluency. Enjoy the beauty of signing “tell” in ASL and embrace the vibrant world of American Sign Language!
