Hello there! Learning American Sign Language (ASL) is a wonderful way to enhance your communication skills and connect with the Deaf community. In this guide, we will focus on helping you grasp the concept of expressing “under” in ASL. We’ll cover both formal and informal ways of conveying this concept, along with some tips, examples, and even a few regional variations. So let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways of Saying “Under” in ASL
When it comes to formal ASL, there are several signs you can use to express the concept of “under.” Let’s have a look at some of the most commonly used signs:
1. The Standard “Under” Sign
The standard sign for “under” involves using both hands. Start with your dominant hand raised and open, palm facing upward while your non-dominant hand is flat. Move your dominant hand beneath the non-dominant hand in a slight sweeping motion. This sign is widely understood within the ASL community.
2. The Literal “Under” Sign
If you want to convey a more literal meaning of “under,” you can use a modified version of the standard “under” sign. Instead of using a sweeping motion, keep your dominant hand stationary beneath your non-dominant hand, mimicking the physical notion of something being underneath another object.
3. The “Beneath” Sign
Another possible sign for “under” is the sign for “beneath.” To use this sign, maintain the standard hand shape where your dominant hand is raised and open, palm facing upward, and move it downward beneath your non-dominant hand. This sign can be particularly useful in certain contexts to convey a sense of “underneath” or “below.”
Informal Ways of Saying “Under” in ASL
Informal ASL includes different variations and regional dialects that may stray from formal conventions. While these variations exist, it is important to note that formal signs are widely understood and recommended for effective communication. However, let’s explore some informal variations of expressing “under” in ASL:
1. Contextual Gestures
ASL users occasionally rely on contextual gestures to convey the meaning of “under.” For example, if you want to indicate that something is “under” a table, you can point towards the table and make a sweeping motion with your hand beneath it. This method emphasizes the visual connection between the object and its location, making it easier to understand in context.
2. Modified Standard Sign
Sometimes, informal variations involve slightly altering the standard sign language. In the case of “under,” some individuals may use a more exaggerated or specific motion while keeping the same handshape. For instance, they might emphasize a swift and deliberate movement of the dominant hand beneath the non-dominant hand to clearly express the concept of “under.”
Examples and Tips
Useful Vocabulary Examples
- Put the book under the table.
- The dog is hiding under the bed.
- I found my keys under the couch cushions.
- The pen rolled under the desk.
- The sun disappeared under the horizon.
Tips for Improving Your ASL Skills
Learning a new language takes practice and dedication. Here are a few tips to help you improve your ASL skills:
1. Practice regularly: Devote consistent time to practice ASL. Consistency is key to mastering any language.
2. Join ASL communities: Interacting with Deaf individuals and joining ASL communities can enhance your signing abilities and provide valuable cultural insights.
3. Use online resources: Take advantage of various online resources, such as ASL dictionaries, video lessons, and interactive signing forums.
4. Watch ASL videos: Observe ASL storytelling, poetry, and conversations to improve your understanding of signing patterns, facial expressions, and body language.
5. Attend ASL events: Participate in ASL events, workshops, and social gatherings to practice your signing skills in real-life scenarios.
Conclusion
Congratulations on taking the initiative to learn how to express “under” in ASL! Remember that formal signs, such as the standard “under” sign, are universally understood in the ASL community. However, informal variations and contextual gestures can also be useful in certain situations.
As you continue your ASL journey, keep practicing regularly, immerse yourself in the Deaf community, and explore various resources available online and offline. Embrace the beauty of ASL, its regional variations, and the vibrant culture it represents. With time and dedication, you’ll become more proficient in signing “under” and other concepts. Good luck on your ASL adventure!
