Expand Your Communication Skills With Sign Language
Hola! Habari! Ni hao! Bonjour! Konnichiwa! So many ways to say, “Hello,” but can you say it in sign language? Over 72 million kids and adults with some level of hearing loss speak 300+ sign languages, making it an important way to communicate. American Sign Language (ASL), common in the U.S., parts of Canada, and elsewhere, is one version of this multifaceted communication form.
With the holiday season soon in full swing, we’re sharing nine timely signs to learn, whether they’re expressions of celebration or warm words aimed to break the ice at fun gatherings. Each expression is paired with a YouTube video showing it in ASL form. Take a look, try out the signs yourself, and share with family and friends. They may inspire you to learn even more signs in the new year!
- “Trick or treat.”
On Halloween, there’s nothing like the fun of getting into costume, laughing with friends, and meeting neighbors while racking up an enviable haul of sweet treats door-to-door.
- “How are you?”
Whether serving as a greeting or opening a deeper conversation, this friendly lead-in — and similar versions such as “How’s it going?” and “What’s up?” — has stood the test of time.
ASL often streamlines speech, so the sign for this is “How you?”
- “Good morning.”
Another common greeting that’s so simple yet can build a bridge among friends and strangers alike — and is always in season.
- “Thank you so much.”
From strengthening bonds to deepening a personal sense of fulfillment, expressing gratitude can go a long way toward changing a mood and state of mind for the better.
This version communicates a little extra thanks versus the typical “thank you” statement.
- “Let’s get a bite to eat.”
Right?! Few things beat laughing and catching up over some delicious eats, especially with loved ones who’ve traveled from near and far.
The final four expressions below are broken up into individual words. The structure’s a bit different than orally spoken English, but with a little effort, it’ll click in no time.
- “The holidays are here!”
It’s hard to say that without a sense of excitement, joy, and wonder. Queue the fun debates about the “official, true, undeniable, absolute” start of the holiday season.
- “Holiday”
- “Here”
- “Come meet my family.”
Ahhh, the satisfaction of putting a face to a name and connecting in person with all those loved ones you’d heard so much about.
- “Come”
- “Meet”
- “Family”
- “I love dogs (and cats), too.”
Same, same! How many friendships started with a chat about fur babies? While no exact tally exists, we’re guessing a trillion.
- “Dog”
- “Cat”
- “Love”
- “Same”/“too”
- “Happy New Year!”
The new year might not quite occur at the same moment around the world, but the sense of renewal, anticipation, hope, and inspiration can feel universal.
Learning any language can seem daunting at first, but these easy expressions can help you gain confidence fast. Allow yourself time to practice a bit and make mistakes. Asking for help can make the difference as well. You may even discover that a family member, friend, or colleague is fluent in ASL and happy to assist.
Adding a few ASL signs to your festivities can bring an extra layer of connection and cheer, opening the door to even more language learning. Keeping your hearing at its best can also play a big role in enjoying the best holiday season yet, so don’t wait. Contact our caring team to schedule a hearing evaluation today!
Did You Know?
Check out these quick sign-language facts to share this season.
- Global Recognition
Sept. 23, 2018, marked the inaugural International Day of Sign Languages, designated by the United Nations General Assembly to recognize the critical importance of sign communication. Raising awareness about this observance may help spur even more public interest in signing.
- Language Variety
Though some forms of sign language have been influenced by or have contributed to others, there is no universal version. American, Canadian, Kenyan, French, and hundreds more sign languages add to the breadth of communication and expression around the world.
- Expansive Expression
Sign language involves more than shapes and gestures using fingers and hands. It also includes facial movements, body posture, and other means of expression. Like orally spoken language, signing is varied and diverse.
- Regional Accents
Much like folks in one region of the country may pronounce a word differently from others elsewhere, signing even within the same language can vary. Thus, people may be perceived to sign with an “accent.”
- Linguistic Complexity
Sign languages are as linguistically complex as orally spoken languages. They have their own syntax, morphology, semantics, and phonology that won’t necessarily mirror the structure of non-sign languages. This allows signing to accommodate a vast range of ideas and concepts.
- Social Sharing
Some deaf content creators who sign are sharing their everyday experiences online. Whether funny, frustrating, or heartwarming, the clips on TikTok and other platforms offer a look at the unique and universal challenges that can occur with communication at home, work, or play.
- Travel Access
Access to sign language interpreting services can be pretty iffy when traveling, highlighting the importance of addressing this need around the world. Tourist attractions, transit, lodging, and other entities might offer some assistance, making it important to check ahead.
- Diverse Dialects
As with other languages, signing reflects the cultures, communities, and norms of those who use it and includes diverse dialects. There’s the New Orleans dialect of ASL, for example, influenced by French Sign Language; North American Indian Sign Language; and more.
Check Out Our Communication Tips Guide
Learn how to communicate clearly with those who struggle with hearing.