Guide: How to Say the Year in ASL

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say the year in American Sign Language (ASL). In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express the year in ASL, offering tips, examples, and discussing regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in!

Formal Ways to Say the Year in ASL

When it comes to formal situations, such as in educational or professional settings, it is important to use the correct linguistic structure to convey the year in ASL. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Start by signing the word “YEAR” using the “Y” handshape. Bring your dominant hand downward from in front of your face, representing the concept of “year.”
2. Next, sign the specific year using cardinal numbers combined with the sign for “THOUSAND.” For example, to sign “2023,” use the sign for “20,” followed by the sign for “THOUSAND,” and then sign “23” to represent the remaining years.
3. Finish by signing “YEAR” once again to emphasize the completion of the expression.

It is important to note that the signs for cardinal numbers differ slightly in ASL compared to their written counterparts. For instance, the sign for “20” in ASL is a two-handed version of the number two.

Informal Ways to Say the Year in ASL

In informal contexts, such as conversations with friends or family, there is often more flexibility and variation in how the year is expressed in ASL. Here are some common ways to convey the year informally:

• Using just the cardinal numbers: Many ASL users will simply sign the individual digits of the year without referencing “YEAR” or “THOUSAND.” For example, to say “2023,” use the signs for “2,” “0,” “2,” and “3” in sequence.
• Using “THIS YEAR” or “NEXT YEAR” with pointing: Another informal approach is to use the signs for “THIS” or “NEXT,” combined with the sign for “YEAR,” while pointing to the current or upcoming year in space. This method is particularly useful when referring to the immediate present or future.

Examples:

Let’s take a look at some examples to illustrate the formal and informal ways of expressing the year in ASL:

In a formal setting: Sign “YEAR,” then “20” followed by the sign “THOUSAND,” and finally “23.”

In an informal setting: Simply sign “2,” “0,” “2,” “3” in sequence to represent the year.

Another informal example: Sign “THIS YEAR” while pointing to the current year in space.

Regional Variations

Although ASL is a standardized language across the United States, there might be subtle variations in certain signs or regional preferences when expressing the year. However, these differences are typically minor and do not hinder comprehension between signers from different regions.

If you encounter any regional variations when learning or using ASL, it can be helpful to consult with local ASL communities, resources, or deaf individuals in your area for guidance on specific signs or preferred expressions.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing our guide on how to say the year in ASL! Remember, in formal settings, it is recommended to use the structured approach of signing “YEAR,” the specific year using cardinal numbers and “THOUSAND,” and then “YEAR” again. In informal situations, you have more flexibility to sign the individual digits of the year, use “THIS YEAR” or “NEXT YEAR” with pointing, or adapt based on context.

Keep practicing and immersing yourself in ASL to become more fluent and comfortable with expressing the year and other concepts in this beautiful visual language. Whether you are signing formally or informally, let your gestures and expressions convey warmth and inclusivity, reflecting the essence of the Deaf community.