Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “they are” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you are just starting to learn ASL or want to expand your sign vocabulary, we will cover both formal and informal ways to express “they are” in a warm and informative tone. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “They Are” in ASL
When using ASL in formal contexts, you want to convey professionalism and clarity. Here are some formal ways to express “they are” using appropriate sign language techniques:
1. Gender-Neutral Pronoun Sign
In ASL, you can use a gender-neutral pronoun sign to refer to a group of people without specifying their gender explicitly. To express “they are” formally:
Hold your non-dominant hand flat, palm-up. With your dominant hand, form the letter ‘T’ and place it on your non-dominant hand’s palm. Move your dominant hand forward slightly, maintaining a comfortable distance from your non-dominant hand.
Remember to maintain a clear handshape and maintain proper facial expressions to enhance communication.
2. Pointing with Number Agreement
In ASL, you can incorporate number agreement while pointing to a particular location to indicate a group of people. Here’s how you can sign “they are” formally:
Using your dominant hand, point in the direction where the group is located. Simultaneously, use your non-dominant hand to hold the palm flat, facing upwards. Adjust the distance between your dominant hand and non-dominant hand according to the location of the group.
Make sure to maintain eye contact and use a gentle head nod to convey inclusiveness.
Informal Ways to Say “They Are” in ASL
Informal situations allow for a slightly more relaxed approach to ASL. Here are a couple of ways to express “they are” casually:
1. Pointing with Eye Gaze
In informal settings, you can point in the direction of the group while simultaneously using your eye gaze to convey “they are” in ASL. Here’s how:
Extend your dominant arm towards the group, pointing with your index finger. Simultaneously, turn your head in their direction and shift your eye gaze to focus on the group.
This method offers a more laid-back approach while maintaining effective communication.
2. Collective Nod
To casually express “they are” in ASL, you can use a collective nod with appropriate facial expressions. Follow these steps:
Nod your head gently while maintaining eye contact with the group you are referring to. Accompany the nod with a warm smile to express friendliness.
Using this method allows for a quick and casual way to convey “they are” in ASL without explicitly pointing or signing.
Examples of “They Are” in ASL
Now that we have explored both formal and informal ways to express “they are” in ASL, let’s look at some examples to reinforce your learning:
- Example 1: Imagine you are at a party, and someone asks you if your friends have arrived. In a formal context, use the gender-neutral pronoun sign while signing “They are here” in ASL.
- Example 2: In an informal context, you could point towards your friends while simultaneously turning your head and shifting your eye gaze towards them, conveying “They are here” in ASL.
- Example 3: During a casual conversation, you can simply nod your head towards your friends while maintaining eye contact and a warm smile to indicate “They are here” in ASL.
Remember, practicing these examples and the provided techniques will help you become more fluent in conveying “they are” in ASL. Continual practice in various contexts will enhance your communication skills.
Regional Variations and Tips
ASL can vary slightly in different regions. While the techniques mentioned above are widely used, it is essential to remember that some variations may exist. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Always adapt your signing to the preferences of the Deaf individuals you communicate with, as regional variations can arise.
- Be open and respectful when learning from native signers or those familiar with different signing styles.
- Regularly attend ASL events, workshops, or social gatherings to enhance your signing skills and stay up-to-date with any regional or cultural influences.
- Embrace the differences – they provide valuable insights into the richness and diversity of ASL.
In summary, this guide has provided you with formal and informal ways to say “they are” in ASL. Remember to apply appropriate signing techniques, maintain eye contact, and always be open to learning from the Deaf community. With practice, you will become more confident and proficient in expressing “they are” in ASL.
