How to Say "Are" in Sign Language: A Simple Guide to Expressing This Essential Word
Ever wondered how to express "are" in sign language? Maybe you're learning ASL for the first time, or you want to connect better with a deaf friend. Whatever your reason, mastering this basic word is key to building a foundation in sign language. Let's break it down so you can start signing with confidence.
Easier said than done, but still worth knowing.
What Is Sign Language?
Sign language isn't just hand movements—it's a full language with grammar, syntax, and nuance. But american Sign Language (ASL) has over 100,000 users in the U. In real terms, s. alone. It uses hands, arms, body language, and facial expressions to convey meaning. Unlike spoken language, signs often incorporate spatial relationships and context to add depth Simple, but easy to overlook..
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The Basics of "Are" in ASL
In ASL, "are" is typically signed by first forming the letter "Y" with your hand, then moving it in a small circular motion near your chin or mouth. On the flip side, the movement is smooth and continuous. The sign works for both "you are" and "they are," depending on context and body positioning.
Regional Variations and Context
Different sign languages exist worldwide. On top of that, british Sign Language (BSL) and ASL have different signs for "are. " In some contexts, like asking a question, the sign might include a head tilt or raised eyebrows to show interrogative intent Simple as that..
Why It Matters
Understanding how to sign "are" opens doors to inclusive communication. Deaf individuals often face barriers in verbal interactions, and knowing basic signs can bridge that gap. It also helps in educational settings, healthcare, or customer service. Even a few signs can make someone feel seen and heard.
Most guides skip this. Don't.
How It Works: Breaking Down the Sign
Learning to sign "are" involves three main steps: handshape, location, and movement.
Handshape
Start with your dominant hand. Extend your index and middle fingers, cross them at the tips, and tuck your ring and pinky fingers down. Here's the thing — your thumb should rest against your index finger, forming a "Y" shape. This is called the "Y handshape.
Location
Place your "Y" hand near your chin or mouth. The hand should be about 6 inches from your face, slightly to one side. Think about it: keep your wrist relaxed. Avoid touching your face—keep it close but not contact.
Movement
Move your hand in a small, upward circle. Imagine tracing a tiny circle in the air just below your chin. Think about it: the movement lasts about one second. The motion should be fluid, not jerky. Keep your other hand relaxed at your side or use it for support if needed Turns out it matters..
Context Changes
When asking "Are you...?Also, " the sign stays the same, but your facial expression changes. Consider this: raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly. For "They are," you might point slightly away from yourself to indicate the third person. The sign itself doesn't change, but the spatial reference does.
Common Mistakes and What Most People Get Wrong
Many beginners struggle with the handshape. In real terms, they either overextend their fingers or make too tight a fist. In practice, others move their hand too quickly or in too large a circle. The motion should be subtle—think of a small, gentle wave Most people skip this — try not to. Simple as that..
Another common error is forgetting that ASL doesn't always require a separate sign for "are." In many cases, the verb itself changes to show tense or agreement. Here's one way to look at it: "you are running" might just be "you run," with the verb inflecting based on context That's the whole idea..
Some people also forget to use facial expressions. In sign language, your face is as important as your hands. Without proper expression, signs can look awkward or confusing.
Practical Tips That Actually Work
Start by practicing the handshape in front of a mirror. Focus on getting the "Y" shape right before adding movement. Once you're comfortable with the shape, add the circular motion.
Record yourself signing to check your progress. Because of that, compare your form to online tutorials or ASL resources. Native signers often provide clearer demonstrations than textbooks That alone is useful..
Practice with sentences. Try signing "You are kind" or "They are here." Contextual practice helps lock the sign into muscle memory.
Join a local ASL meetup or online community. Here's the thing — interacting with native signers accelerates learning. They can correct your form in real time and explain nuances you might miss in videos Which is the point..
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "are" the same in all sign languages?
No. BSL and ASL use different signs. Some languages might not have a direct equivalent, instead using verb inflections or context clues.
Do children sign "are" the same way?
Yes, children learn the same basic sign. Even so, their hand movements might be less precise initially. Encourage practice without pressure That's the whole idea..
Can I sign "are" without moving my hand?
In some contexts, yes. ASL often omits unnecessary words. If the subject is clear, "are" might be implied through the verb's form.
How do I sign "are" in questions?
The sign stays the same, but your facial expression changes. Raise your eyebrows, widen your eyes, and tilt your head to show you're asking a question Worth keeping that in mind..
What if I mix up "are" and "is"?
Context matters. "Is" is usually for singular subjects, while "are" is for plural or "you." Watch for subject agreement in your signing Worth keeping that in mind..
Wrapping
Advanced Variations and Regional Differences
While the basic “Y” handshape with a small circular motion is widely taught, seasoned signers often adapt the movement to match the rhythm of a sentence or the dialect of their community. In some Northeastern circles, the circle is flattened into a slight side‑to‑side sway, giving the sign a more relaxed feel when it follows a fast‑paced topic. Conversely, in certain Southern signing groups, the motion may become a tiny upward flick, emphasizing a questioning tone even without altered facial cues. Observing native signers from different regions and mimicking their subtle timing can help you sound more natural and avoid sounding “textbook‑perfect” in every context Took long enough..
Integrating “are” into Conversations
Isolating a single sign is useful for drills, but fluency comes from weaving it into larger thoughts. Try these patterns:
- Subject‑Verb‑Object – “They are studying.” Sign THEY, then the “are” motion, followed by STUDY.
- Topic‑Comment – “As for the books, they are on the shelf.” Begin with BOOKS (topic), shift your gaze slightly, then sign THEY ARE ON SHELF.
- Contrastive Structure – “You are tired, but I am fine.” Sign YOU ARE TIRED, pause, shift weight to the opposite side, then sign I AM FINE. The pause and shift signal the contrast, while the “are” sign remains consistent.
Practicing these structures in short dialogues—perhaps with a language‑exchange partner or through video‑call role‑plays—helps the sign become an automatic part of your signing flow rather than a isolated gesture.
Resources for Further Learning
- Video Libraries – Platforms such as SignASL.org and ASLDeafined offer searchable clips where you can filter by “are” to see real‑world usage across different speakers.
- Interactive Apps – Apps like The ASL App and SignSchool include drills that combine handshape, movement, and facial grammar, giving instant feedback via your device’s camera.
- Community Workshops – Many Deaf cultural centers host monthly “sign‑and‑chat” nights where learners can practice with fluent signers in a low‑pressure setting.
- Books with DVD Companions – Titles such as American Sign Language: A Look at Its History, Structure, and Community (by Charlotte Baker & Carol Padden) often include supplemental discs that demonstrate nuanced signs like “are” in varied syntactic frames.
Regularly consulting these materials keeps your exposure fresh and prevents stagnation.
Conclusion
Mastering the sign for “are” in ASL is less about memorizing a static shape and more about attuning yourself to the language’s rhythm, facial grammar, and regional flavor. By refining the handshape, adjusting the motion to match conversational pace, and embedding the sign within full sentences, you move from mechanical imitation to genuine communication. Pair diligent practice with feedback from native signers, put to work multimedia resources, and stay curious about the subtle variations that make ASL a living, expressive language. With persistence, the small circular wave of the “Y” handshape will become a natural, intuitive part of your signing repertoire—helping you convey not just grammar, but connection.
Some disagree here. Fair enough.
