How to Say “What Do You Want to Do?” in Sign Language

Sign language is a beautiful and expressive way of communication used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing. If you want to know how to say “What do you want to do?” in sign language, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey the message, providing helpful tips and examples along the way.

Formal Way to Say “What Do You Want to Do?”

When using sign language in a formal setting, it is important to maintain proper etiquette. Here is how you can sign “What do you want to do?” formally:

Gently raise your eyebrows to show interest and engage the person you are talking to. Then sign:

• Step 1: Begin with both hands extended in front of you, palms up, at shoulder level.
• Step 2: Move your hands forward a few inches, maintaining the palm-up position.
• Step 3: With your dominant hand, create a loose fist with the thumb resting on top of the index finger.
• Step 4: Place the thumb of your dominant hand on the center of your non-dominant palm.
• Step 5: Twist your dominant hand slightly while gently pressing down with the thumb.

This sign conveys a polite and formal way of asking what someone wants to do, respecting their autonomy and choices.

Informal Way to Say “What Do You Want to Do?”

In more casual and informal situations, you can use a slightly different sign to ask “What do you want to do?”. Here’s how:

Adopt a relaxed expression and sign:

• Step 1: Begin with both hands extended in front of you, palms up, at shoulder level.
• Step 2: Move your hands forward a few inches, maintaining the palm-up position.
• Step 3: With your dominant hand, form a loose fist with the thumb resting on top of the index finger.
• Step 4: Place the thumb of your dominant hand on the center of your non-dominant palm.
• Step 5: Shake your dominant hand side to side while gently pressing down with the thumb.

This variation creates a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, inviting the person to express their preferences casually.

Tips for Effective Communication in Sign Language

While learning to sign “What do you want to do?”, keep the following tips in mind for effective communication:

1. Facial Expressions: Sign language relies heavily on facial expressions to convey meaning and emotions. Use your eyebrows, eyes, and mouth to express interest or emotions while signing.
2. Gesture with Care: Use natural hand gestures to support your signs, but avoid excessive or distracting movements that may confuse the person you are communicating with.
3. Sign Clearly: Clearly articulate each sign and ensure your handshapes, movements, and locations are accurate. Practice regularly to improve your signing skills.
4. Respect Personal Space: Maintain an appropriate distance while signing to ensure both parties can clearly see each other’s signing without feeling crowded or uncomfortable.
5. Practice Active Listening: Pay close attention to the person signing, focusing on their gestures, facial expressions, and body language to fully understand their message.

Example Conversations

To help you visualize the signs and usage in context, here are a few example conversations:

Formal Conversation:

Person A: “What do you want to do?” (signs formally)

Person B: (Responds with their desired activity) (signs their response)

Informal Conversation:

Person A: “What do you want to do?” (signs casually)

Person B: (Responds with their desired activity) (signs their response)

Remember, practicing sign language regularly and engaging with the deaf community can greatly improve your signing skills. Always approach sign language with respect, empathy, and a willingness to learn.

Now that you have learned how to say “What do you want to do?” in sign language, take the opportunity to explore more signs and phrases to expand your signing vocabulary. Sign language is a rich and diverse form of communication, and the more you learn, the better you can communicate with the deaf and hard of hearing community.