The beauty of American Sign Language (ASL) lies in its unique visual grammar and syntax, which can often be vastly different from spoken languages. One common question that ASL learners and enthusiasts often ask is, “What is ‘married’ in ASL?” In this article, we’ll delve into the world of ASL and explore the various ways to express the concept of marriage in this beautiful language.
The Importance Of ASL In Modern Society
Before we dive into the specifics of signing “married” in ASL, it’s essential to understand the significance of ASL in today’s society. ASL is the primary language of the Deaf and hard of hearing community in the United States, with approximately 250,000 to 500,000 people using it as their primary means of communication.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in learning ASL, driven partly by the increasing awareness of Deaf culture and the need for greater accessibility and inclusion. Many individuals, educators, and organizations are now recognizing the importance of ASL as a valuable tool for bridging the gap between the Deaf and hearing communities.
What Is “Married” In ASL?
Now that we’ve established the relevance of ASL, let’s get to the heart of the matter: how do you sign “married” in ASL? The answer might surprise you – there isn’t just one way to sign it!
Method 1: The Classic “M” Handshape
One of the most common ways to sign “married” in ASL involves using the “M” handshape. To do this, hold your dominant hand in front of you, with your palm facing inward and your fingers extended. Then, move your hand away from your body, keeping your wrist straight, as if you’re drawing a line or connecting two points. This gesture represents the bond between two people in a marital relationship.
The Story Behind The Sign
The origins of this sign can be traced back to the early days of ASL, when Deaf individuals would use handshapes and gestures to convey meaning. The “M” handshape was likely chosen because it resembles the first letter of the word “marriage,” making it an intuitive and logical choice for Deaf signers.
Method 2: The “Ring” Sign
Another way to sign “married” in ASL is by using a gesture that mimics the act of wearing a wedding ring. To do this, hold your dominant hand in front of you, with your palm facing inward and your fingers curled inward. Then, rotate your hand in a circular motion, as if you’re twisting a ring onto your finger.
Cultural Significance Of Wedding Rings
The use of wedding rings as a symbol of marriage dates back thousands of years, with ancient cultures believing that the ring represented eternal love and commitment. In modern times, the ring has become an universally recognized symbol of marriage, making it a natural fit for the ASL sign.
Method 3: The “Together” Sign
A third way to sign “married” in ASL involves using a gesture that conveys the idea of unity and togetherness. To do this, hold your dominant hand in front of you, with your palm facing inward and your fingers extended. Then, move your hand toward your non-dominant hand, as if you’re bringing two people together.
The Power Of Togetherness
This sign is particularly meaningful, as it highlights the importance of partnership and unity in a marriage. By bringing two hands together, the signer is emphasizing the bond between two individuals, creating a powerful visual representation of marriage as a union between two people.
Other Ways To Express Marriage In ASL
While the three methods mentioned above are the most commonly used ways to sign “married” in ASL, there are other ways to express marriage in this language. For example, some signers might use a combination of signs, such as “love” and “together,” to convey the idea of marriage.
Regional Variations And Personal Style
One of the fascinating aspects of ASL is its regional variations and personal style. Just like spoken languages, ASL has different dialects and variations depending on the region, community, and individual. This means that the way “married” is signed in ASL can differ from person to person, adding a unique layer of cultural and personal expression to the language.
Conclusion
In conclusion, signing “married” in ASL is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. With multiple methods and variations, this language offers a rich tapestry of expression and cultural significance. Whether you’re using the classic “M” handshape, the “ring” sign, or the “together” sign, each gesture conveys a powerful message about the importance of love, commitment, and unity in marriage.
As we continue to explore the world of ASL, we’re reminded of the beauty and complexity of human language. By embracing the diversity and richness of ASL, we can build bridges between the Deaf and hearing communities, promoting greater understanding and inclusion.
So, the next time you’re asked, “What is ‘married’ in ASL?”, you’ll have not one, not two, but three answers to share – and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of American Sign Language.
What Does The Sign For “married” Look Like In American Sign Language (ASL)?
The sign for “married” in ASL is a combination of two handshapes and a specific movement. To sign “married,” start by making a fist with your non-dominant hand, with your thumb tucked in. Your dominant hand should be in a flat handshape, with your fingers together and your thumb extended. Place your flat hand on top of your fist, with your thumb of your dominant hand touching the fist.
The movement of the sign is crucial to convey the meaning of “married.” To complete the sign, rotate your flat hand in a circular motion, as if you’re sealing or locking something in place. This circular motion represents the idea of commitment and unity in marriage. The sign should be performed with a smooth and confident movement to convey the idea of a strong and lasting bond.
Is The Sign For “married” The Same For All Sign Languages?
No, the sign for “married” is not the same for all sign languages. While many sign languages, including ASL, use similar handshapes and movements to convey the idea of marriage, each language has its unique signs and grammatical structures. For example, in British Sign Language (BSL), the sign for “married” involves a different handshape and movement, where the dominant hand makes a ring shape and the non-dominant hand makes a fist.
It’s essential to remember that sign languages are not universal and have their own distinct grammar, vocabulary, and cultural context. What may be a common sign in one language may not be recognized or used in another language. Therefore, it’s crucial to learn and use the specific signs and grammar of the sign language you are communicating in.
Can I Use The ASL Sign For “married” In Formal Or Professional Settings?
Yes, the ASL sign for “married” can be used in formal or professional settings, especially when communicating with Deaf or hard of hearing individuals who use ASL as their primary language. In fact, using ASL in formal or professional settings can demonstrate respect and inclusivity towards the Deaf community.
However, it’s essential to consider the context and audience when using ASL signs in formal or professional settings. If you’re not fluent in ASL, it’s recommended to practice the sign before using it, to ensure accuracy and confidence. Additionally, if you’re communicating with a Deaf or hard of hearing individual who may not be familiar with ASL, it’s always a good idea to ask their preferred method of communication.
How Can I Incorporate The ASL Sign For “married” Into My Wedding Ceremony Or Celebration?
You can incorporate the ASL sign for “married” into your wedding ceremony or celebration by teaching it to your wedding party, family, or friends. This can be a meaningful way to include Deaf or hard of hearing guests and create a sense of inclusivity and diversity.
You can also consider hiring an ASL interpreter or Deaf signer to perform the sign during the ceremony or special moments, such as during the exchange of vows or the first dance. This can add a unique and memorable element to your celebration, while also promoting greater understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Is The ASL Sign For “married” Only Used For Formal Or Legal Marriages?
No, the ASL sign for “married” is not limited to formal or legal marriages. In Deaf culture, the sign can be used to represent any committed, long-term relationship, including same-sex relationships or non-traditional partnerships.
The sign can also be used to express commitment, unity, or partnership in other contexts, such as business relationships or spiritual partnerships. The key element is the idea of mutual commitment and unity, which is conveyed through the circular motion of the sign.
Can I Use The ASL Sign For “married” In Conjunction With Spoken Language?
Yes, you can use the ASL sign for “married” in conjunction with spoken language, especially when communicating with Deaf or hard of hearing individuals who are bilingual or prefer to use ASL and spoken language simultaneously.
Using the ASL sign can add visual clarity and emphasis to your spoken message, and can also help to create a more inclusive and engaging communication environment. However, it’s essential to ensure that your spoken language and ASL signs are synchronized and coherent, to avoid confusion or miscommunication.
Are There Any Variations Of The ASL Sign For “married” That I Should Know About?
Yes, there are some variations of the ASL sign for “married” that you may encounter, especially across different regions or cultural contexts. For example, some signs may use a different handshape or movement, or may incorporate additional elements, such as a “ring” sign or a “together” sign.
It’s essential to be aware of these variations and to be flexible in your communication approach. If you’re unsure about a specific variation or the preferred sign in a particular context, don’t hesitate to ask or seek guidance from a Deaf or hard of hearing individual or an ASL expert.