Welcome to our guide on how to say “ten” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are a beginner or an experienced signer, learning numbers in ASL is an essential part of communicating fluently. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways of signing “ten,” along with some tips, examples, and regional variations. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way of Signing “Ten” in ASL
In formal ASL, the sign for “ten” involves using both hands. Follow these steps to sign “ten” correctly:
- Start with your dominant hand in a “ten” handshape. This handshape looks like a closed fist with your thumb extended upwards.
- Hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you, palm facing upwards.
- Bring your dominant hand down, touching the inside of your non-dominant hand’s palm with your extended thumb.
- Repeat the motion one more time to emphasize the number “ten.”
Remember to maintain a steady and controlled motion while signing “ten” in formal ASL. This sign is easy to learn and widely used in various contexts.
Informal Way of Signing “Ten” in ASL
In informal ASL, signers often use a more casual variation of the sign for “ten” by using their dominant hand only. Here’s how to sign “ten” informally:
- Start with your dominant hand in a “ten” handshape, similar to the formal way of signing.
- Hold your hand in front of you, thumb extended upwards.
- Move your hand downwards, tapping it against your non-dominant hand’s palm or the base of your non-dominant hand near your wrist.
- Repeat the motion once or twice, if desired, to emphasize the number “ten.”
The informal way of signing “ten” is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is less formal but still easily understood and widely accepted among signers.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sign for “Ten”
Here are some tips to help you improve your signing skills for “ten” in ASL:
- Practice the handshapes. Make sure to form the “ten” handshape correctly by closing your hand into a fist with your thumb extended upwards.
- Pay attention to your palm orientation. In both the formal and informal ways of signing “ten,” the palm of your dominant hand should face towards your non-dominant hand or your non-dominant wrist.
- Maintain a relaxed and natural signing pace. Remember to keep your movements fluid but controlled while signing “ten” to ensure clarity and comprehension.
- Observe native signers. Watching fluent signers and practicing with them is an excellent way to learn and improve your signing skills. Online videos, communities, and local ASL courses can be valuable resources for finding signing partners.
Examples of Using “Ten” in ASL
Now let’s explore a few examples of how you can use the sign for “ten” in ASL:
Example 1: When counting, you can sign “one, two, three, …, nine, ten” using the sign for “ten.”
Example 2: In a conversation, you might sign “I ranked tenth in the competition” using the sign for “ten.”
Example 3: You can sign “I have ten apples” while showing the number ten using the appropriate sign.
Feel free to get creative and practice using “ten” in various contexts to enhance your signing skills and fluency.
Regional Variations
Regarding regional variations, it’s important to note that ASL has certain regional differences in signs, just like spoken languages have dialects. However, when it comes to signing “ten,” the formal and informal methods described in this guide are widely used across different regions. Therefore, you can confidently apply these signs regardless of your location within the United States.
Remember, ASL is a dynamic language, and while there may be slight variations in signs, the overall meaning and communication remain intact.
In Conclusion
Congratulations on embarking on your journey to learn how to say “ten” in ASL! By mastering this number sign, you are one step closer to becoming a more proficient signer. Use the formal and informal signing methods mentioned in this guide, practice diligently, and remember the tips and examples provided.
Always maintain a warm and respectful attitude towards the language, culture, and the Deaf community. As you continue to expand your ASL vocabulary, you’ll discover a beautiful world of expression and connection. Happy signing!
