Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “yours” in American Sign Language (ASL). In this guide, we’ll cover both the formal and informal ways to express “yours” in ASL. We’ll also provide useful tips, examples, and discuss any regional variations if necessary. So let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Way to Say “Yours”
In formal situations, such as when addressing strangers, acquaintances, or in professional settings, you can use the following ASL sign to convey “yours”:
Gloss: YOUR [point with an open hand towards the person]
To sign “YOUR” formally, you extend one arm outward in front of you, open your hand, and point towards the person you are referring to. This gesture indicates that something belongs to or is associated with them. For example:
Person A: “Is this your bag?”
Person B (responding): “Yes, it’s YOURs.” (pointing towards themselves)
Remember to maintain appropriate eye contact and facial expressions to convey respect and politeness while using the formal sign for “yours.”
2. Informal Way to Say “Yours”
When communicating informally with friends, family, or in casual settings, you can use a different sign to express “yours.” The informal sign for “yours” in ASL is:
Gloss: YOURs (or YOUR+nod)
To sign “YOURs” informally, you simply point to yourself with an open hand and nod your head. This sign is more relaxed and suited for interactions with close acquaintances or those you are familiar with. Here’s an example:
Person A: “Do you want to borrow my book?”
Person B (responding): “No, I have YOURs.” (while pointing to themselves and nodding)
The informal sign for “yours” is suitable for use among friends and family members, as it carries a sense of intimacy and familiarity.
3. Tips and Examples
Here are a few essential tips and examples to help you master expressing “yours” in ASL:
Tip 1: Maintain Eye Contact
Whether using the formal or informal sign for “yours,” maintaining appropriate eye contact with the person you are addressing is crucial. Eye contact demonstrates respect and engagement in the conversation.
Tip 2: Consider Facial Expressions
Along with eye contact, facial expressions also play an important role in ASL. Use suitable facial expressions to convey your intentions clearly. For example, a friendly smile can enhance your communication while using the informal sign for “yours.”
Tip 3: Adapt to Regional Variations
ASL may vary slightly across different regions. While the signs for “yours” explained above are commonly used throughout the United States, it’s important to adapt to any regional variations you may encounter. If you notice a different sign for “yours” within your local Deaf community, it’s always a good idea to learn and utilize that variation.
Example 1:
Person A: “Whose phone charger is this?”
Person B (responding formally): “It’s YOUR charger.” (pointing towards Person A)
Example 2:
Person A: “Can I use your pen?”
Person B (responding informally): “Sure, here, take YOURs.” (while pointing to themselves and nodding)
Example 3:
Person A: “Do you have my keys?”
Person B (responding formally): “No, I don’t have YOUR keys.” (pointing towards themselves)
Example 4:
Person A: “Is that your dog?”
Person B (responding informally): “Yes, it’s YOUR dog.” (while pointing to themselves and nodding)
Remember, practice is key to developing fluency in ASL. Regularly interacting with the Deaf community and attending ASL classes or meetups can greatly improve your signing skills and enhance your understanding of cultural nuances.
Now that you have learned the formal and informal ways to say “yours” in ASL, make sure to practice utilizing the correct sign contextually. With time, patience, and dedication, your ASL skills will flourish, and you’ll be able to establish meaningful connections within the Deaf community.
Happy signing!
