Natalie Kerry
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “work” in American Sign Language (ASL). Whether you need to know this keyword for a conversation, work-related interactions, or simply out of curiosity, this guide has got you covered. In ASL, there are both formal and informal ways to express the concept of “work.” Additionally, regional variations exist within the ASL community, which we’ll touch on if necessary. Let’s dive in and explore how to sign “work”!
Formal Ways to Say “Work” in ASL
When it comes to formal contexts, such as professional settings or official communications, you can use the following signs to express the concept of “work” in ASL:
1. Sign: “Work” with Fingerspelling
One of the ways to sign “work” formally is through fingerspelling using the ASL manual alphabet. To sign “work,” simply form the letter “W” with your dominant hand by crossing your middle, ring, and pinky fingers over your thumb. Then, perform a small, upward movement with your hand. Remember to maintain a relaxed handshape and a firm, controlled motion.
2. Sign: “Employment” or “Occupation”
If you want to specify the idea of “employment” or “occupation” along with the notion of “work,” you can utilize a combination of signs. Begin by performing the fingerspelled sign for “work,” as mentioned before. Then, transition smoothly into the sign for “job,” which involves tapping the back of your non-dominant hand using a “V” handshape. This combination emphasizes the idea of work in a formal sense.
Informal Ways to Say “Work” in ASL
In more casual or informal settings, such as conversations with friends or everyday interactions, ASL users often employ alternative signs to express “work.” These signs are more commonly used within the ASL community and are considered to be more relaxed or colloquial.
1. Sign: “Work” with a Thumb Tap
In an informal context, a common way to sign “work” involves using a one-handed sign with a thumb tap. Simply extend your dominant hand, palm facing down, and tap your thumb on the back of your non-dominant hand. This sign is a quick and casual way to convey the concept of “work” in everyday conversations.
2. Sign: “Work” with a Pantomime Gesture
Another informal way to express “work” is by using a pantomime gesture. This involves mimicking the action of typing on a keyboard or performing a task related to your occupation. For example, you can pretend to tap your fingers on an invisible keyboard or mime the act of hammering with a hammer motion. This sign adds a playful touch to your ASL conversations when discussing work-related topics.
Regional Variations
While ASL is commonly used throughout the United States, it is important to note that regional variations exist within the deaf community. These variations can manifest in signs, dialects, or cultural influences. When it comes specifically to the sign for “work,” regional differences may arise. It’s always interesting to learn about these variations, so let’s explore a couple of examples below:
1. Regional Variation: Southern States
In certain Southern States in the United States, individuals may utilize a specific regional variation for “work” in ASL. In this variation, some people sign “work” by extending their index and middle fingers, keeping their other fingers partially bent, and tapping the back of their non-dominant hand. This regional variation adds diversity and flavor to ASL, reflecting the rich linguistic heritage across different areas.
2. Regional Variation: Northeastern States
Similarly, in Northeastern States, you might encounter an alternate regional variation for “work.” In this variation, individuals often represent “work” by extending their index finger forward with a firm, purposeful movement while keeping their remaining fingers curled or relaxed. This distinctive sign is commonly used by ASL speakers from the Northeastern States and showcases the uniqueness within the ASL community.
Tips and Examples
Here are some useful tips and examples to help you master the sign for “work” in ASL:
Tips:
- Practicing with a native ASL user or taking ASL classes can greatly enhance your skills and understanding of signing “work.”
- Maintain a relaxed but firm handshape, as this contributes to clear and accurate signing.
- Pay attention to facial expressions and body language, as they are essential elements of conveying meaning in ASL.
- Practice signing “work” in front of a mirror to self-evaluate and refine your technique.
Examples:
Jackie: What do you do for work?
Kelly: Well, I’m an accountant, so I sign “work” by fingerspelling ‘W-O-R-K’, and I add the sign for ‘job’ afterward.
Michael: How was your day at work?
Emily: It was great! I had a productive day. I signed “work” by tapping my thumb on my non-dominant hand to show that I was busy.
Remember, practice and immersion in the ASL community are key to becoming fluent in signing “work” and other concepts. Don’t be afraid to communicate with native speakers and embrace the rich linguistic diversity within the ASL community!
Now armed with the different ways to sign “work” in ASL, both formally and informally, you can confidently engage in discussions and communicate effectively. Happy signing!
