Greetings! If you’ve ever wondered how to express the word “try” in American Sign Language (ASL), you’ve come to the right place. Whether you want to learn it for casual conversation or formal circumstances, this guide will provide you with a thorough understanding of how to sign “try” in ASL.
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Formal Ways to Sign “Try” in ASL
When signing “try” in more formal situations or environments, it’s essential to use the proper signs. Here are two formal ways to sign “try” in ASL:
- Sign 1: Attempt
This sign resembles imitating an action or making an attempt. Start with both hands in a fist, palms facing you. Extend your dominant hand forward as if you’re reaching for something while slightly bending your fingers. This motion represents the act of trying or attempting.
Example: You can express your dedication to learning ASL by saying, “I want to attempt signing ‘try’ correctly. Can you help me practice?”
- Sign 2: Endeavor
In formal settings, you can use the sign for “endeavor” to convey the meaning of “try.” With both hands in a fist, place your dominant hand atop your non-dominant hand. Make a circular motion with your dominant hand while keeping your non-dominant hand stationary. It symbolizes the effort and determination involved in trying something.
Example: If you are asked to sign up for an ASL class, you may respond, “I will endeavor to improve my signing skills at the new class.”
Informal Ways to Sign “Try” in ASL
Informal conversations often have their own variations of signing certain words or phrases, including “try.” Here are two common informal ways to sign “try” in ASL:
- Sign 1: Give It a Shot
To express “try” informally, use the sign that translates as “give it a shot.” Extend your dominant hand, palm facing inwards, and raise it slightly above your non-dominant shoulder. Then, in a swift motion, bring your hand forward past the center of your chest, mimicking the action of giving something a try or attempting.
Example: If someone challenges you to try some advanced ASL signs, you can respond with enthusiasm, saying, “Sure, I’ll give it a shot!”
- Sign 2: Test Out
This informal sign for “try” is commonly used in everyday conversations. Gently touch the fingers of your dominant hand to your non-dominant forearm, and then move your hand outward, slightly angled. It illustrates the notion of testing or experimenting with something.
Example: Imagine a friend recommending a new ASL signing app; you can respond by saying, “I’ll test it out and see if it helps me improve my signing skills.”
Regional Variations of “Try” in ASL
Although ASL is generally consistent across regions, some minor variations exist. It’s important to note that ASL can have local differences, even in signs as common as “try.” For this reason, it’s always beneficial to consider the regional variations when conversing with signers from specific areas.
Regional Variation 1: East Coast
In some areas on the East Coast of the United States, the sign for “try” involves tapping the fingertips of your dominant hand onto your non-dominant forearm, just above the wrist. It emphasizes the notion of testing or experimenting.
Regional Variation 2: West Coast
On the West Coast, signers often use a variation of the sign for “attempt.” Rather than extending the dominant hand forward, they move it outward diagonally from their body, emphasizing the concept of giving something a try or making an attempt.
Tips for Mastering “Try” in ASL
To become fluent in signing “try” in ASL, here are some valuable tips:
- Practice with a fluent ASL signer who can provide feedback and guidance.
- Watch ASL videos online to observe how experienced signers express “try.”
- Make use of online ASL dictionaries to deepen your understanding of the various signs for “try.”
- Immerse yourself in ASL communities and interact with Deaf individuals to grasp the culture and diverse signing styles.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now been introduced to several ways of signing “try” in ASL, both formally and informally. Remember, regardless of the specific sign you choose, practice, exposure, and interaction with the Deaf community will help you refine your signing skills. Keep in mind that regional variations may exist, but these should not hinder your ability to communicate effectively in ASL. So give it a try, explore the beautiful world of ASL, and enjoy your journey to becoming a proficient signer!
