Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “What is this?” in sign language! Sign language is a beautiful form of communication used by individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. It’s important to have the ability to ask questions in sign language, allowing for effective and inclusive conversations. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways of signing “What is this?” and provide various tips and examples to help you become more proficient in sign language.
Table of Contents
Formal Way: “What is This?”
The formal way of signing “What is this?” involves using specific signs and grammar structures. Here’s the step-by-step guide:
- Step 1: Begin by raising your dominant hand, palm facing upward, at chest level.
- Step 2: Using your other hand, make a pointing gesture towards the object you want to inquire about.
- Step 3: While maintaining the pointing gesture, move your hand in a circular motion towards yourself, as if you’re drawing the object towards you.
- Step 4: Once the circular motion is complete, raise your eyebrows slightly and tilt your head forward, indicating curiosity.
- Step 5: Finally, sign the word “this” by extending your index finger and touching it to your chest, near your non-dominant shoulder.
To summarize the formal way of signing “What is this?”: Raise your dominant hand palm-up at chest level, point towards the object, make a circular motion towards yourself, show curiosity through facial expressions, and sign the word “this” near your non-dominant shoulder.
Informal Way: Casual “What is This?”
For less formal situations, you can adapt the sign for “What is this?” to a more relaxed version. Keep in mind that the context and relationship with the other person will influence the level of informality. Here’s how to sign the casual “What is this?”:
- Step 1: Instead of the formal circular motion, simply point towards the object using your index finger.
- Step 2: You can add a slight head tilt and a questioning expression.
- Step 3: Sign the word “this” by extending your index finger and touching it to your chest, near your non-dominant shoulder, similar to the formal version.
The casual version is often used among friends, family members, or in informal social settings. Remember to consider the situation and adjust accordingly to show appropriate respect and courtesy to the person you are signing with.
Tips for Effective Communication
1. Maintain Eye Contact
Eye contact is essential in sign language conversations. By maintaining eye contact, you show respect and engagement in the conversation, allowing for better understanding and clarity.
2. Use Facial Expressions and Body Language
Facial expressions and body language play a crucial role in sign language communication. Use your eyebrows, tilting your head, and other facial expressions to convey emotions and contextual information effectively.
3. Practice Fluency
Regular practice is key to improving your signing fluency. Engage in conversations with Deaf individuals or find a signing partner to practice frequently. The more you sign, the better you’ll become.
“Signing is not just a language; it’s a journey towards understanding and embracing a diverse community. Let’s learn together!”
Examples in Context
Now, let’s explore a few examples of using “What is this?” in different scenarios:
Example 1: Formal Setting
Imagine you’re attending a sign language class, and your teacher presents an unfamiliar object. You could sign, “What is this?” using the formal version described earlier. Remember to maintain appropriate eye contact and use the correct hand movements.
Example 2: Casual Setting
In a more casual setting, such as at a friend’s house, you might spot an interesting gadget. You can use the casual version of the sign to ask, “What is this?” while maintaining a friendly and relaxed demeanor.
Example 3: Everyday Conversations
In daily conversations, you will encounter various objects or topics you want to inquire about. Practice using both the formal and informal versions of “What is this?” to enhance your signing skills.
Remember, sign language is not just about the physical actions, but also about establishing connections through understanding, empathy, and respect.
Happy signing!
