When it comes to American Sign Language (ASL), expressing pronouns like “they” can be slightly different compared to spoken languages. ASL relies on a combination of handshapes, movements, and facial expressions to convey meaning effectively. In this guide, we will explore how to say “they” in ASL both formally and informally, providing various tips, examples, and possible regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “They” in ASL
In formal settings or when addressing someone with utmost respect, you can use the sign for “THEY” in ASL. The formal sign for “they” involves signing “TH” with your dominant hand, and then extending your thumb to your non-dominant shoulder and your fingers to your dominant shoulder, crossing your arm diagonally across your body. This sign indicates a more formal tone or when addressing a person with higher status.
Example: If you want to refer to a group of students, you can sign “THEY” using the formal variation.
Informal Ways to Say “They” in ASL
In informal situations or when speaking with friends or peers, you can use a slightly modified version of the sign for “THEY.” The informal sign for “they” in ASL involves signing the letter “T” with your dominant hand. Start by holding your hand in a fist, with your thumb extended upward. Then move your hand forward and slightly to the side, while keeping your thumb up.
Example: When discussing a casual event with friends, using the informal sign for “they” can help create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Tips for Using “They” in ASL
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when using “they” in ASL:
- Facial expressions: Facial expressions are crucial in ASL to convey meaning and tone. Maintain a neutral or appropriate facial expression while signing “they” to enhance your communication.
- Directional verbs: ASL uses directional verbs to indicate the subject and object of a sentence. If you want to specify who “they” refers to, you can incorporate directional verbs along with the sign for “they.”
- Context: Like spoken language, ASL heavily relies on context. Ensure that you establish proper context and clarify if needed to avoid confusion.
- Practice: Regularly practicing ASL signs, including pronouns, will help improve your fluency and recall. Find a native ASL speaker or utilize online resources to practice and refine your signing skills.
- Regional variations: While ASL is relatively standardized across the United States, there may be slight regional variations in signs. It is always helpful to learn from various sources and interact with members of the Deaf community to familiarize yourself with different ASL dialects.
Examples of Using “They” in ASL
Here are some examples of how to use “they” in ASL:
Scenario 1: You’re discussing a group project with classmates:
You: What do they need to complete the project?
Classmate: [Signs ‘T’] They need to gather more research and analyze the data.
In this scenario, the informal sign for “they” is used in an informal setting, indicating a conversation among classmates.
Scenario 2: You’re attending a formal conference:
You: Could they please turn off their cellphones during the presentation?
Keynote Speaker: [Signs ‘THEY’] Your message has been conveyed.
Here, the formal sign for “they” is used in a more formal environment, emphasizing respect for the speaker.
Conclusion
Mastering how to say “they” in ASL is essential for effective communication within the Deaf community. Remember to adapt your signing style depending on the formality of the situation and your relationship with the person you are communicating with. Regular practice, including incorporating proper facial expressions and mastering directional verbs, will enhance your fluency in ASL. Additionally, be open to learning regional variations and dialects to broaden your understanding of this rich and vibrant language.
