My Name Is In Sign Language
To say "my name is in sign language" using American Sign Language (ASL), you do not translate the sentence word-for-word. Instead, you sign "MY" followed by "NAME," and then you fingerspell your name letter by letter. To sign "MY," press your flat dominant hand against the center of your chest. To sign "NAME," make "H" handshapes with both hands (index and middle fingers extended together) and tap the middle finger of your dominant hand twice on top of your non-dominant hand's middle finger. Finally, spell out your name using the manual alphabet, omitting the English verb "is" entirely.
Learning how to introduce yourself is the first step toward meaningful communication with the Deaf community. By understanding the correct structure of this phrase, you respect the unique linguistic rules of ASL. This guide will walk you through the physical mechanics of signing your name, the cultural context behind introductions, and the foundational concepts of Deaf etiquette.
Introduction to ASL & Deaf Culture
American Sign Language is a rich, visual-gestural language utilized by millions of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals across North America. It is a misconception that ASL is simply a visual representation of spoken English or a collection of simple gestures. In reality, ASL is a fully realized, natural language with its own complex grammar, syntax, and vocabulary that developed independently of English.
Deaf culture is deeply intertwined with the use of ASL, forming a vibrant community with its own shared history, values, and social norms. For many Deaf individuals, their identity is not defined by a medical diagnosis of hearing loss, but rather by their participation in this unique cultural group. Embracing ASL means stepping into a world where visual connection, direct eye contact, and expressive body language are the primary modes of human interaction.
The history of ASL dates back to the early nineteenth century when Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc founded the first school for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut. By blending French Sign Language (LSF) with local American signs, they laid the foundation for the modern ASL we use today. Understanding this history helps beginners appreciate why learning to say "my name is in sign language" is more than just a physical action; it is an entry point into a proud and historic culture.
Key Differences: ASL vs. Signed English
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is assuming that signing involves translating English sentences word-for-word. Systems like Signing Exact English (SEE) attempt to do this by using English word order and adding prefixes and suffixes. However, SEE is a manually coded English system, whereas ASL is a distinct language with a completely different grammatical structure.
In English, we use helper verbs like "is," "am," and "are" to connect subjects to their descriptions. In ASL, these state-of-being verbs do not exist, which is why you do not sign "is" when saying "my name is in sign language." Instead, ASL relies on a Topic-Comment structure where the topic is established first, followed by the information about that topic.
When learning what signs to do in sign language, it is vital to understand that ASL does not use "to be" verbs. For example, the English sentence "My name is John" becomes "MY NAME J-O-H-N" in ASL syntax. Attempting to sign the word "is" in this context makes the phrase sound unnatural and grammatically incorrect to fluent ASL signers.
By focusing on ASL grammar rather than signed English, you show respect for the linguistic integrity of the language. This distinction is crucial for building positive relationships within the Deaf community. Learning the structure of "my name is in sign language" helps train your brain to think visually rather than translating back and forth from English.
Essential Beginner Signs
Before diving into complex conversations, every beginner needs to master a core set of vocabulary words. These basic signs form the foundation of daily interactions and allow you to establish a friendly connection. Practicing these signs regularly will build muscle memory in your hands and fingers, making your movements more fluid.
When practicing, always pay attention to the five parameters of a sign: handshape, palm orientation, location, movement, and non-manual markers. Changing even one of these parameters can completely alter the meaning of a sign. Let us explore the essential greetings and spelling techniques you need to pair with your introduction.
Greetings & Common Phrases
To start any conversation, you must first greet the person in front of you. The sign for "hello" is straightforward and friendly, performed by bringing your dominant hand to your forehead in a slight saluting motion and moving it outward. This open, welcoming gesture should always be accompanied by a warm smile and direct eye contact.
Once you have shared your name, the most common follow-up phrase is "nice to meet you." To sign "nice," place your dominant hand palm down on top of your non-dominant hand palm up, and slide the top hand forward. For the sign "meet," bring both index fingers pointing upward toward each other, representing two people coming together, followed by pointing your index finger at the person for "you."
Other essential politeness signs include "please" and "thank you," which are crucial for respectful communication. To sign "please," rub your flat dominant hand in a circular motion over your chest. For "thank you," touch the fingertips of your flat dominant hand to your chin or lips, and then move your hand forward and down toward the person you are speaking to.
Fingerspelling & Numbers
Fingerspelling is the process of spelling out words letter by letter using the manual alphabet. Because there is no unique sign for every individual name in the world, you must use fingerspelling to state your name when saying "my name is in sign language." Mastering the twenty-six handshapes of the ASL alphabet is therefore a primary requirement for all beginners.
When fingerspelling your name, keep your hand positioned near your shoulder or collarbone area, keeping your elbow tucked comfortably near your side. Avoid bouncing your hand with each letter, as this makes your spelling incredibly difficult to read. Instead, focus on keeping your hand steady and transitioning smoothly from one letter shape to the next.
Numbers are also vital for basic communication, such as sharing your age, phone number, or the time. For numbers one through five, your palm should face inward toward your body. For numbers six through ten, you rotate your wrist so that your palm faces outward toward the person you are communicating with.
Importance of Non-Manual Markers
In spoken languages, speakers use vocal inflection, tone, and volume to convey emotion, sarcasm, or urgency. In American Sign Language, these vocal nuances are replaced by non-manual markers (NMMs). Non-manual markers include facial expressions, head tilts, shoulder shifts, and body movements that act as the grammar and tone of the language.
If you sign "my name is in sign language" with a completely blank, expressionless face, you will appear robotic or unfriendly. Your facial expression must match the message you are conveying. A pleasant, slightly smiling expression communicates warmth and openness during an introduction, making the interaction comfortable for both parties.
Non-manual markers are also grammatically mandatory for asking questions in ASL. For yes/no questions, such as asking someone if they sign, you must raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward. For WH-questions (who, what, where, why, when), you must furrow your eyebrows and tilt your head forward to indicate that you are seeking specific information.
Without these facial indicators, the grammatical meaning of your signs can become lost or confusing. Beginners often feel self-conscious about making exaggerated facial expressions, but it is a natural and necessary part of ASL. Over time, you will learn to coordinate your hand movements with your facial expressions seamlessly.
Deaf Community Etiquette & Myths
Entering the Deaf community requires an understanding of cultural etiquette that differs significantly from hearing culture. For example, direct eye contact is not just polite; it is a fundamental requirement for communication. Looking away while someone is signing to you is considered highly rude, equivalent to plugging your ears while someone is speaking.
Another important aspect of etiquette is how to properly get someone's attention. Because Deaf individuals cannot hear their names called, you should gently tap them on the shoulder or wave your hand in their peripheral vision. In group settings, it is common to briefly flicker the overhead lights to get the attention of everyone in the room.
If you need to walk through a space where two people are signing, do not stop, hesitate, or duck down. Simply walk through the space at a normal pace without signing "excuse me" or interrupting their visual field. The signing community views this as much less disruptive than someone pausing and drawing attention to the interruption.
There are also several persistent myths surrounding sign language that need to be dispelled. First, sign language is not universal; British Sign Language (BSL) and ASL are completely different languages, to the point of being mutually unintelligible. Second, lip-reading is not a reliable method of communication, as only a small percentage of spoken English words are clearly visible on the lips.
Finally, remember that name signs (a single sign that represents a person's name) are a unique part of Deaf culture. You cannot create your own name sign or look one up online. A name sign must be given to you by a member of the Deaf community after you have spent time interacting and building relationships with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign the word "is" when introducing myself?
No, you should never sign the word "is" when introducing yourself in ASL. The concept of "my name is in sign language" is signed simply as "MY NAME [spelled name]." ASL grammar does not use English state-of-being verbs like "is," "am," or "are."
Can I create my own sign name?
No, you cannot create your own sign name. In Deaf culture, sign names are special gifts that can only be bestowed upon you by a Deaf person. Until you are given a sign name, you must always fingerspell your name letter by letter.
Which hand should I use to sign?
You should always use your dominant hand as the primary active hand for signing. Your non-dominant hand acts as a base or support for two-handed signs. Once you choose a dominant hand, do not switch back and forth during a conversation, as this is confusing to watch.
Is American Sign Language the same as British Sign Language?
No, ASL and British Sign Language (BSL) are completely different languages with different histories, vocabularies, and grammars. ASL actually shares more historical roots with French Sign Language (LSF) than it does with BSL.
How can I make my fingerspelling easier to read?
To make your fingerspelling readable, keep your hand steady in one place near your shoulder and avoid bouncing your hand with each letter. Focus on clear handshapes and a steady, rhythmic pace rather than trying to spell as fast as possible.
Conclusion
Learning how to say "my name is in sign language" is a rewarding first step on your journey to mastering American Sign Language. By understanding the physical mechanics of the signs, the grammar of ASL, and the cultural rules of the Deaf community, you set yourself up for successful interactions. Remember to practice fingerspelling your name smoothly, keep consistent eye contact, and always use appropriate facial expressions.
As you continue to learn, seek out opportunities to learn directly from Deaf instructors and community members. Respecting the language as a distinct cultural treasure will make your learning experience much richer. Keep practicing, stay open to feedback, and enjoy the beautiful process of visual communication.