Sign language is a unique and beautiful way to communicate without using spoken language. If you want to learn how to say “want” in sign language, this guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to express your desires. From simple gestures to more complex signs, we’ll explore different variations and offer tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Want”
In formal sign language settings, it’s important to use proper grammar and clarity. Here are three formal ways to express “want” using sign language:
- Use the sign for “desire”: Begin by extending your hand with your fingers slightly curved. Bring your hand towards your chest, ending with your fingers pointing inward as if you’re pulling something towards you. This sign mimics the action of drawing something close to your heart, symbolizing your desire for it.
- Use the sign for “wish”: Start by making a closed fist with your thumb positioned upwards. Then, move your closed fist in a circular motion, clockwise, in front of your body. This sign represents the action of making a wish or yearning for something.
- Use the sign for “crave”: Place your dominant hand, with fingers slightly spread apart, over your palm facing upward. Move your hand in an upward motion while keeping your palm facing upwards. This sign conveys a strong desire or craving for something.
Informal Ways to Say “Want”
Informal sign language allows for more personal expression and variations in gestures. Here are a few informal ways to say “want” in sign language:
- Use the gesture of pointing: Point towards the object or person you desire using your index finger. Pair this gesture with a facial expression that shows your longing or excitement. This simple gesture is commonly understood as a sign of wanting something informally.
- Combine signs: Another informal way to express “want” is by combining signs for specific objects or actions with the signs for “desire” or “crave.” For example, if you want a piece of cake, you can sign “cake” and then follow it with the sign for “desire” to indicate your interest.
- Non-manual markers: Informal communication often relies on facial expressions, body language, and eye gaze to convey emotions and desires. While signing, you can enhance your “want” gesture by using a pleading facial expression or tilting your head slightly forward to indicate your longing for something.
Tips for Learning and Using Sign Language for “Want”
Tip 1: Practice regularly: Consistent practice is essential to develop fluency in sign language. Regularly set aside time to practice signing the word “want” to reinforce your muscle memory.
Tip 2: Express emotion: Sign language relies on facial expressions and body language to convey meaning effectively. When signing “want,” focus on expressing your emotion through your face and body to add depth to your message.
Tip 3: Seek feedback: Find a sign language tutor, participate in sign language classes or groups, or use online resources to receive feedback on your signing. Feedback helps identify areas for improvement and ensures you’re communicating clearly.
Example 1: Let’s say you’re at a restaurant with a friend who is deaf, and you want to indicate that you want another drink. You can use the formal sign for “desire” and, while making eye contact, sign “drink.” This combination shows both your desire and the specific item you want.
Example 2: In an informal setting, you’re at a party and spot a delicious-looking dessert. To express your desire for that dessert, you can use a combination of the sign for “cake” and an informal pointing gesture towards the dessert. You can also enhance the sign by using a smile or an excited facial expression.
Example 3: Imagine you’re browsing through a store, and you come across a book you’ve been wanting to read. To express your interest in purchasing it, you can use the sign for “book” followed by the informal sign for “desire” and a nod of approval to indicate your wish to buy the book.
Remember, sign language evolves and may have regional variations or community-specific signs. If you’re interacting within a specific deaf community or region, it’s essential to be aware of any variations in signs used to express “want.”
In conclusion, learning to say “want” in sign language provides a wonderful opportunity for effective communication with the deaf community. Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, the signs and gestures mentioned here will help you clearly express your desires. Remember to practice regularly, use facial expressions, and seek feedback to enhance your signing skills. Enjoy your journey into sign language and the rich culture it embodies!
