Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “what” in American Sign Language (ASL). ASL is a rich and expressive language used by the deaf and hard of hearing community in the United States. Understanding how to communicate “what” in ASL is an essential step toward effective communication with members of the ASL community. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express “what” in ASL, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Sign “What”
In formal ASL, you can sign “what” using the following signs:
- “WH” Question Face: Start with a neutral facial expression and form your mouth into an “oo” shape. Raise your eyebrows slightly as you sign the rest of the question. This facial expression is often used when asking a question that requires more than a simple “yes” or “no” response.
- “W” Handshape: To sign “what,” form the letter “W” with your dominant hand. Bring your thumb, middle, and ring fingers together, while your pinky and index fingers are extended upward. Hold your hand at about chest level and slightly lean it forward. This is a common way to sign “what” and is widely understood in the ASL community.
Remember to establish eye contact and maintain a clear signing space when using formal ASL. Proper signing etiquette is crucial to effective communication and shows respect for the Deaf culture.
Informal Ways to Sign “What”
Informal ASL, also known as casual or regional signing, may vary in different areas. Below are a few examples of informal signs for “what” that are commonly used in everyday conversation:
- Scratch Chin: Lightly scratch your chin with the back of your fingers. This informal sign is often used in informal or quick exchanges. It may be considered more informal, so it’s essential to be aware of the context and relationship with the person you’re communicating with.
- Tap Chest: Gently tap the center of your chest with your fingertips. This sign can be used in a casual setting when interacting with friends or family.
- Index Finger Wiggle: While pointing your index finger forward, wiggle it slightly from side to side. This sign is used as a quick and informal way to convey “what.”
Keep in mind that regional variations are common in informal signing. It’s always helpful to learn from members of the local Deaf community or consult resources specific to the region you are in to understand the prevalent informal signs used in that area.
Tips for Signing “What” in ASL
When signing “what” in ASL, consider the following tips:
- Facial Expressions: ASL relies heavily on facial expressions to convey meaning and tone. Ensure your facial expressions match the context and intention of your question. Pay attention to raised eyebrows and the shape of your mouth to indicate a question.
- Non-Manual Signals: Apart from facial expressions, ASL uses various non-manual signals, including head tilts, nods, and eye gazes. These signals provide important grammatical information and can change the meaning of signs. Pay attention to these subtle nuances when signing “what” and other ASL expressions.
- Practice Active Listening: When engaging in ASL conversation, actively listen to the other person’s signs, expressions, and body movements. This will help you understand the context and respond appropriately with the appropriate sign for “what.”
“Learning and respecting ASL not only expands your skills, but also fosters inclusivity and understanding in your interactions with the Deaf community.”
Remember, learning ASL is an ongoing journey. It’s always beneficial to immerse yourself in Deaf culture and regularly engage with members of the ASL community to refine your signing skills and increase your understanding of regional variations.
By knowing how to sign “what” in ASL formally and informally, you are taking a significant step towards bridging the communication gap and showing respect for the Deaf community. Practice regularly, seek guidance from experienced signers, and embrace opportunities to communicate in ASL to enhance your signing abilities.
