Greetings! If you’re looking to express someone’s age in American Sign Language (ASL), you’ve come to the right place. In ASL, conveying age can be quite straightforward and fun. Whether you want to describe your own age or discuss someone else’s, this guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to do so. We’ll also explore a few regional variations if they exist. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions of Age in ASL
Formal expressions are typically used in professional settings, formal conversations, or when addressing someone older or in a position of authority.
1. Using Numbers:
The simplest way to express age in ASL is by using numbers combined with the sign for “years old.” For example, if you want to say “I am 20 years old,” you would sign “I” followed by the number 20 and then the sign for “years old.”
Example: “I 20 YEARS OLD.”
2. Using Classifiers:
ASL incorporates classifiers, which are handshapes used to represent people or objects. One way to express age formally is by using a classifier for age, which is a modified “A” handshape. You use this classifier to show the age range, followed by the sign for “years old.” Let’s say you are discussing the age range of a group of children, you can use this method.
Example: “CHILD+AGE-RANGE GROUP, 3-5 YEARS OLD.”
Informal Expressions of Age in ASL
Informal expressions are commonly used in casual conversations, with friends, or among peers.
1. Fingerspelling:
When informally expressing your age or someone else’s, fingerspelling the numerical age is often used. You simply fingerspell the number corresponding to the age, followed by the sign for “years old.”
Example: “I 2 5 YEARS OLD.”
2. Gesturing:
Another common way to express age informally in ASL is through simple gestures. First, you indicate the height of a child using your hand horizontally at the child’s height. Then, you sweep your hand upwards to indicate growth or aging, followed by the sign for “years old.”
Example: “CHILD – HEIGHT – GROW + YEARS OLD.”
Regional Variations
ASL exhibits some regional variations, but when it comes to expressing age, the differences are minimal. The methods mentioned above are widely understood and used across different regions. However, some subtle variations may exist in specific signing communities due to cultural or regional influences.
Tips for Expressing Age in ASL
1. Facial Expressions:
Facial expressions are essential in ASL and contribute to conveying meaning. When expressing age, use appropriate facial expressions to match the age range you’re discussing. For instance, if talking about an elderly person, show a respectful and mature facial expression.
2. Practice Clarity:
Ensure your signing is clear and easily understandable. Take time to practice the signs associated with age, and pay attention to handshapes and movements. Remember, clarity is crucial for effective communication.
Examples of Age Expressions in ASL
Deaf Community Member 1: How old is your nephew?
Deaf Community Member 2: He is 7 years old. (fingerspells 7) 7 YEARS OLD.
Parent: My daughter is turning 12 soon.
Teacher: That’s wonderful! 12 is such an exciting age. (shows number 12 and then signs “years old”)
A Final Thought
Remember, age expressions in ASL can be flexible, and various approaches exist based on the context, formality, or personal preference. Feel free to adapt these examples to meet your needs and style. Keep practicing, and enjoy incorporating age expressions alongside your expanding ASL skills!
