Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “who” in sign language! Whether you’re looking for formal or informal ways to express this concept, we’ve got you covered. We’ll walk you through various sign language variations focusing primarily on American Sign Language (ASL). While we’ll touch upon regional variations where necessary, let’s dive into the fascinating world of signing “who”!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Who” in Sign Language
When it comes to formal sign language, there are a few variations of expressing “who” depending on the signing system you are following. We will primarily focus on ASL, but keep in mind that different countries may have their unique sign languages. Here’s how to sign “who” formally in ASL:
1. Single Index Finger Point
One common formal way to sign “who” in ASL is by using a single index finger point. Here’s how you do it:
- Extend your dominant hand in front of you, palm facing outward.
- Raise your index finger while keeping the other fingers slightly bent.
- Point your extended index finger slightly to the side and forward as if you are pointing at someone.
- Hold this position momentarily to clearly convey the question “who.”
This formal sign is widely understood across ASL users and can be used in various contexts.
2. Modified “W” Handshape
Another formal way to sign “who” is by using a modified “W” handshape. Follow these steps:
- Start with your non-dominant hand extended in front of your body.
- Form a “W” handshape with your dominant hand by touching the tips of your thumb, index finger, and middle finger together.
- Gently touch the back of your dominant hand’s “W” handshape to the palm of the non-dominant hand.
- Move your dominant hand slightly back and forth to emphasize the question.
This variation is commonly used in formal settings and is easily recognizable by ASL users.
Informal Ways to Say “Who” in Sign Language
Informal sign language often involves simplifying signs or using contextual gestures. Here are a couple of ways to express “who” in a more casual or informal manner:
1. Flicking the Chin
In informal settings, a casual way to ask “who” is by flicking your chin towards the person you are referring to. This method doesn’t require specific hand movements and is commonly used among friends or in casual conversations.
2. Raising Eyebrows with a Slight Head Tilt
Another informal way to express “who” is by raising your eyebrows while slightly tilting your head to one side, indicating a questioning expression. This non-manual marker, combined with the context of the conversation, is often sufficient to convey the intended meaning.
Regional Variations
While ASL serves as the primary reference for sign language in the United States, regional variations might exist. Here are a couple of examples where meaning slight differences could be seen:
1. British Sign Language (BSL)
In BSL, to say “who,” a common sign used involves pointing two fingers towards the subject. The hand movement is similar to the letter “V,” but with the palm facing toward you instead of away.
2. Australian Sign Language (Auslan)
In Auslan, “who” is often expressed by pointing your index finger in the direction of the person you are referring to while twisting your wrist slightly.
TIP: If you are learning sign language for a specific region, it is always recommended to consult local resources or connect with native signers to understand any regional variations.
Putting It All Together
Learning how to say “who” in sign language can greatly enhance your communication skills when interacting with the deaf community. Remember, formal signs may be more suitable in professional settings, while informal signs are commonly used among friends or in casual conversations.
Always be respectful and mindful of the cultural diversity within the signing community. Sign language variations can occur not only across regions but also among individuals. Embrace the opportunity to learn from different sign language users and enrich your understanding of this beautiful language.
We hope this guide helps you become more adept at expressing “who” in sign language!
