Guide: How to Say “ASL” in American Sign Language

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “ASL” in American Sign Language (ASL). ASL is a unique and expressive language used by the deaf community in the United States and some parts of Canada. Whether you want to communicate online or in-person, we will provide you with formal and informal ways to express “ASL,” along with some useful tips and examples. So let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Say “ASL”

When you want to communicate “ASL” formally in American Sign Language, there are a few signs you can use:

1. Sign: A
   Description: Hold up your hand with your palm facing the person you are communicating with and extend your thumb, index, and middle fingers. Your ring finger and pinky should be folded down.
   Example: To communicate the letter “A,” use the same handshape as in the ASL alphabet, but make a circular motion near the side of your temple instead of shaking it back and forth.
2. Sign: S
   Description: Hold up your hand with your palm facing down and extend your thumb, index, and middle fingers. Fold your ring finger and pinky down.
   Example: To communicate the letter “S,” use the same handshape as in the ASL alphabet, but make a circular motion near the side of your chest instead of shaking it back and forth.
3. Sign: L
   Description: Hold up your hand with your palm facing inward and extend your thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. Keep your pinky folded down.
   Example: To communicate the letter “L,” use the same handshape as in the ASL alphabet, but rotate your hand side to side near your body.

By using these signs for each letter, you can spell out “ASL” in ASL itself.

Informal Ways to Say “ASL”

When interacting casually or online, you can use the following informal ways to communicate “ASL” in ASL:

1. Fingerspelling: A-S-L
   Description: Use the ASL fingerspelling alphabet to individually sign each letter of “ASL” one after the other.
   Example: Imagine someone asks you, “What’s your favorite way to communicate?” You can simply respond by fingerspelling A-S-L.
2. Initial Letters
   Description: In casual settings, it is common to use the initial letters of words.
   Example: If you are chatting with someone and they mention that they are learning sign language, you can respond with “I know some ASL.”

Tips and Etiquette

Tip: When signing “ASL,” ensure you make smooth and accurate hand movements. Remember, clarity is important in ASL to convey your message effectively.

Here are some additional tips and important etiquette to keep in mind when conversing about ASL:

1. Establish Communication
   Description: Before addressing someone in ASL, make sure they are open to communication through signing. Eye contact with the person is vital to get their attention.
   Example: If you are in a group setting and want to ask someone about their experience with ASL, make sure to approach them politely and establish visual contact.
2. Be Clear in your Intentions
   Description: Clearly express why you want to discuss ASL, whether it’s for educational purposes, curiosity, or to engage in a signed conversation.
   Example: If you approach someone and say, “I noticed you use ASL. I’m interested in learning more about the language,” it shows your genuine curiosity and respect.
3. Practice and Learn
   Description: Take the opportunity to learn more about ASL. Mastering the basics of ASL goes beyond just knowing how to say “ASL” and shows your respect and commitment towards the deaf community.
   Example: There are various resources available, such as online courses, books, and local sign language classes. Engage in learning and practice regularly to improve your signing skills.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ASL is a captivating and visual language used by the deaf community to communicate in the United States and parts of Canada. When looking to express “ASL” formally, you can use signs for each letter. However, in informal settings, fingerspelling or using the initial letters is common practice. Remember to adopt proper etiquette, establish communication, and be clear about your intentions when discussing ASL. Take the opportunity to learn and practice ASL; it will not only enhance your communication skills but also foster meaningful connections within the deaf community.

Now that you have an understanding of how to say “ASL” in American Sign Language, get ready to embrace the beauty of this expressive language and the rich culture it represents!