In American Sign Language (ASL), expressing the concept of “try to” involves a combination of hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements. This guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to convey the idea of “try to” in ASL. While there may be some regional variations, we will focus on widely used signs and techniques. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Try To” in ASL
When using ASL formally to communicate the notion of “try to,” you can utilize the following signs:
- Gesture: Finger to Temple
One way to indicate the concept of “trying to” do something is by using a universal gesture. You can point your index finger towards your temple while presenting a slightly concentrated facial expression. This gesture suggests mental effort and intent.
Sign: ATTEMPT or EFFORT
In ASL, there are specific signs for “attempt” and “effort” that can be used to express “try to.” To sign “attempt,” you form a loose ‘A’ handshape and move it forward slightly. For “effort,” you create a ‘E’ handshape and tap your chest gently. Emphasize the movement to indicate the act of trying.
Informal Ways to Say “Try To” in ASL
If you’re in a casual setting or having a conversation with friends, you might use less formal signs. Here are a few options:
- Sign: GIVE-IT-A-SHOT
The sign for “give it a shot” is an informal way to express “try to” in ASL. With both hands held in loose ‘C’ handshapes, you make a tossing motion forward as if throwing something. It represents the idea of giving something a try or attempting it.
Gesture: Point with Bent Index Finger
Another informal way to convey “try to” is by using a simple pointing gesture. Bend your index finger, point it in the direction of the action, and give a slight nod or affirmative facial expression to indicate your intention to try.
Tips for Communicating “Try To” Effectively
To effectively convey the concept of “try to” in ASL, keep the following tips in mind:
- Use Facial Expressions: Facial expressions play a crucial role in ASL. Combining appropriate facial expressions with hand movements and gestures enhances the clarity and understanding of your message.
- Emphasize Intent: When signing “try to,” emphasize your intent through strong and purposeful movements. This helps convey your determination to make an attempt.
- Consider Context: Depending on the context, choose the appropriate sign or gesture for “try to.” Formal settings typically warrant more formal signs, while informal situations allow for more casual expressions.
- Practice and Observe: To improve your ASL skills, practice with a qualified ASL instructor or native signer. Observing experienced signers and engaging in conversations with the Deaf community will greatly enhance your understanding of ASL expressions.
Examples of “Try To” in ASL
Let’s see some examples of how to sign “try to” in ASL:
Example 1: If you want to say, “I will try to finish my homework tonight,” you can sign “I FINISH HOMEWORK TONIGHT TRY-TO.”
Example 2: To express, “Try to wake up early tomorrow,” you can sign “TOMORROW EARLY WAKE-UP TRY-TO.”
Remember, fluency in ASL comes with practice, exposure, and respect for the Deaf community. The more you immerse yourself in ASL, the better you’ll become at using signs and gestures naturally.
ASL is a beautifully expressive language that extends beyond simple translation. Appreciating the visual nature of ASL and embracing its grammar and cultural nuances are essential for effective communication.
So, whether you’re using ASL formally or informally, these techniques and signs should guide you in conveying the concept of “try to” effectively. Practice, learn from others, and enjoy the process of embracing the vibrant world of ASL!
