Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “TV show” in American Sign Language (ASL). In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to express this concept in ASL. We’ll also touch upon any necessary regional variations. So, let’s dive in and discover how to sign “TV show” like a pro!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say TV Show
When it comes to expressing the term “TV show” in a formal setting using ASL, you have a few options. These signs are commonly used among the Deaf community, interpreters, and in professional settings:
- Sign 1: Television + Show
This sign combination involves the ASL signs for “television” and “show.” To sign “television,” place the palm of your non-dominant hand flat and facing up in front of you. Then, with your dominant hand, imagine holding a remote control and tap the palm of your non-dominant hand twice. Next, sign “show” by forming the letter ‘S’ with your dominant hand and moving it in a circular motion near your non-dominant hand, which represents the screen. This sign combination accurately conveys the meaning of a TV show. - Sign 2: TV Series
Another formal way to say “TV show” is by signing “TV series.” Begin with the sign for “television” explained above. Then, instead of signing “show,” transition to signing “series.” To sign “series,” use the letter ‘S’ handshape, just like in “show,” but move it back and forth horizontally in front of you. This sign captures the idea of a continuing program on television, much like a TV show. - Sign 3: Program
In a more formal context, some individuals may opt to convey “TV show” by signing the ASL word for “program.” To sign “program,” place your dominant hand palm-down and make a double-tapping motion on the back of your non-dominant hand. This sign represents a specific television program, including TV shows.
Informal Ways to Say TV Show
When communicating in a casual or informal setting, you have various ways to express “TV show” in ASL that are widely used among friends, family, or in everyday conversations:
- Sign 1: TV + Show
This informal sign combination is the simplest and most commonly used method for expressing “TV show” among friends or in casual conversations. Start by signing the ASL letter ‘T’ with both hands, mimicking a TV screen in front of you. Then, sign “show” as described in the formal way. This combination quickly gets the message across in everyday contexts. - Sign 2: Show on TV
Another way to casually say “TV show” is by signing “show on TV.” Begin with the sign for “show” as explained above, and then follow it with the sign for “on” by pointing your index finger upward while keeping your hand in a flat, palm-down position. This sign conveys the idea of a show being displayed on a television. - Sign 3: Watch Show
In an informal conversation, you can use the sign for “watch” to convey the idea of a TV show. To sign “watch,” extend your non-dominant hand, palm up, and make a fist. Then, with your dominant hand, keep your index and middle fingers extended as if pointing toward your non-dominant palm, and tap twice. After signing “watch,” follow it with “show” as described in previous signs. This combination expresses the act of watching a TV show.
Regional Variations
While the signs mentioned above are commonly used across the United States, there may be slight regional variations. It’s important to note that ASL, like spoken languages, can vary between regions. If you’re learning ASL in a specific area or community, it’s always useful to reach out to local Deaf individuals, ASL teachers, or interpreters to learn about any regional variations in signs for “TV show.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have explored both formal and informal ways to say “TV show” in ASL. We covered signs such as “television + show,” “TV series,” and “program” as formal options, and signs like “TV + show,” “show on TV,” and “watch show” for informal contexts. It’s important to remember that regional variations may exist, so it’s always beneficial to consult with local Deaf individuals or ASL experts to learn about any regional sign differences. By mastering these signs, you’ll be able to effortlessly and confidently express the concept of a TV show in ASL!
