Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “what” in American Sign Language (ASL), both formally and informally. ASL is a vibrant and expressive language used by the Deaf community in the United States. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your signing skills, this guide will provide you with tips, examples, and regional variations (if necessary) to help you communicate “what” effectively in ASL.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “What”
When expressing “what” formally in ASL, you can use the following signs:
- Sign: Begin with your dominant hand in a closed fist, then flick your index finger forward, away from your body. This sign mimics the motion of indicating or pointing towards something.
- Tips: Make sure to hold your hand at eye level and emphasize the flicking motion of your index finger.
- Example: When asking a formal question like “What is your name?”, you would sign “YOUR NAME WHAT?”
Informal Way to Say “What”
For a more casual or relaxed way of expressing “what” in ASL, you can use an initialized version of the sign that incorporates the letter “X.” The informal sign for “what” is as follows:
- Sign: Hold your open hand in front of you, palm facing down. Place your other hand’s thumb on your forehead, near the hairline, and bring it forward, ending with your index finger pointing slightly upward. This sign represents curiosity or a puzzled expression.
- Tips: Keep the hand on your forehead relaxed, and make sure your facial expression conveys intrigue or confusion.
- Example: When interacting with friends or in casual settings, you can sign “WHAT” using this informally initialized sign.
Regional Variations
While ASL is a standardized language, there may be slight regional variations in how “what” is signed. These variations can include handshape, movement, or facial expression. It’s important to note that these differences rarely hinder communication, as the signs remain recognizable across regions. Here are some notable regional variations:
In some areas, the formal sign for “what” is signed by extending all fingers in a sweeping motion instead of just the index finger, while the informal version remains unchanged. This variation doesn’t affect the overall meaning and is widely understood across the Deaf community.
Tips for Effective Communication
Here are some essential tips to enhance your ASL communication when using the sign for “what”:
- Facial Expressions: ASL relies heavily on facial expressions to convey emotions. When signing “what,” maintain an inquisitive expression to accurately express curiosity.
- Context: Understand the importance of context and emphasize the appropriate facial expression and tone accordingly. “What” can be signed with different nuances based on the situation.
- Pacing: Ensure you sign “what” with appropriate speed and clarity to improve understanding and avoid confusion.
- Body Language: Pay attention to your posture and the positioning of your body while signing “what.” Maintain eye contact with the person you are communicating with to foster effective communication.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve completed this comprehensive guide on how to say “what” in American Sign Language. Remember, ASL is a rich and dynamic language that relies on expressions and movement to convey meaning. By using the formal and informal signs provided, along with regional variations if necessary, you’ll be able to effectively communicate “what” in ASL. Keep practicing, fostering understanding, and embracing this beautiful language!
