How to Say “To Play” in ASL

Learning American Sign Language (ASL) can be an exciting and fulfilling journey. One of the essential words to know is “to play,” as it is a common verb used in everyday conversations. In this guide, we will explore different ways to express “to play” in ASL, including formal and informal variations. Additionally, we will provide tips, examples, and address any regional variations if necessary.

Formal Ways to Say “To Play” in ASL

When it comes to formal expressions in ASL, it’s essential to use signs that are widely understood and accepted across different regions. Here are a few formal ways to express “to play” in ASL:

1. Sign: PLAY
   Description: For this sign, use both hands with open palms facing down, fingers extended and slightly spread apart. Move your hands up and down as if playing a piano.
   Example: You can use this sign when discussing organized sports or games, such as “I play soccer every weekend.”
2. Sign: PARTICIPATE
   Description: For this sign, place one hand with an open palm flat against your chest. With the other hand, create a flat palm and move it in a circle on top of the stationary hand.
   Example: Use this sign to express a general sense of participation in activities, for instance, “I participate in the school play.”
3. Sign: ENGAGE
   Description: To sign “engage,” extend both hands in front of you, palms facing each other. Move your hands forward and backward, as if signaling mutual interaction.
   Example: This sign can be used when referring to engaging in games or activities, e.g., “I engage in board games with my friends.”
4. Sign: INVOLVE
   Description: To convey “involve,” bring one hand with an open palm close to your chin. With the other hand, create a fist, and place it inside the open palm, twisting it slightly back and forth.
   Example: You can use this sign to discuss being involved in recreational activities like “I involve myself in art classes.”

Informal Ways to Say “To Play” in ASL

Informal variations of signs are often used between friends or within specific communities. They may be more colloquial and could vary across regions. Here are a few informal ways to express “to play” in ASL:

1. Sign: GAME
   Description: With both hands, create a “C” shape, palms facing up. Move your hands back and forth alternately, as if mimicking the action of playing a game.
   Example: This sign can be used in a casual setting, such as “Let’s game together this weekend.”
2. Sign: FUN
   Description: Extend one hand with an open palm, facing up and touch it with your other hand’s fingertips repetitively.
   Example: This sign can imply a general sense of fun or enjoyment while playing, for example, “Playing sports is so much fun!”
3. Sign: TOY
   Description: Hold one hand at chest level with an open palm, fingers slightly apart. With the other hand, create a “C” shape and tap it against the palm of the stationary hand.
   Example: You can use this sign when referring to playing with toys, as in “I love playing with my toy cars.”

Tips for Learning and Using “To Play” in ASL

Here are some useful tips to help you navigate learning and using the signs for “to play” in ASL:

• Practice Facial Expressions: Facial expressions are vital in ASL as they convey tone and meaning. While signing “to play,” ensure your facial expressions reflect enthusiasm, excitement, or enjoyment.
• Study Regional Variations (If Relevant): Sign language can include regional variations, so be open to learning different signs during your ASL journey. Consult with local ASL resources or interact with members of the Deaf community to understand any regional differences in the signs for “to play.”
• Combine Signs: ASL is a rich language where signs can be combined to express more specific concepts. For instance, you can combine the signs for “game” and “fun” to convey “playing games for fun.”
• Immerse Yourself: To become more proficient in ASL and understand the nuances of signing “to play,” immerse yourself in the Deaf community, engage with ASL speakers, attend events, and practice with native signers whenever possible.

Remember, learning a new language takes time and effort. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from ASL instructors, online resources, or local Deaf community centers to enhance your knowledge and understanding of signing “to play” and the broader ASL vocabulary.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you will develop a strong foundation in signing “to play” in ASL. Embrace the journey and enjoy the process!