How Are You in Sign Language (ASL)

The sign “How Are You” is a common greeting used in American Sign Language to inquire about someone’s well-being. This phrase is important in social interactions within the Deaf community, often used to establish rapport and show care for others. It can be signed in various contexts, whether you’re meeting someone for the first time or checking in with a friend.

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Signing the phrase

1. Handshape: The dominant hand forms the letter “A” with a closed fist and the thumb extended upwards.
2. Location: Start with the dominant hand near the chin or mouth.
3. Movement: Move the hand away from your face, slightly outward and forward, while keeping the palm facing outward.
4. Non-manual signals: Raise your eyebrows slightly while signing to indicate that you are asking a question.

This sign combines a specific handshape with movement and facial expressions to convey both the greeting and the inquiry about someone’s state. The use of non-manual signals, such as raising your eyebrows, is crucial to indicate that you are asking a question.

When and how it’s used

“How Are You” can be used in various social situations, from casual conversations to more formal interactions. It is often a way to initiate dialogue and shows that you are interested in the other person’s feelings or experiences. You might use this greeting when you see a friend, a colleague, or even when you are introduced to someone new in a social gathering. It can be accompanied by other signs depending on the context, such as adding “today” to specify the time frame of the inquiry.

Conversational variations

In addition to the standard “How Are You,” there are conversational variations that can make your signing feel more natural or personalized. For example, you can ask “How are you doing?” or “How have you been?” by incorporating different signs for “doing” and “been.” These variations can include additional facial expressions or even slight modifications in the sign’s movement to convey different levels of concern or curiosity. Engaging with these variations allows you to express empathy and a genuine interest in the other person’s well-being.

A learner’s tip

For those just beginning to learn ASL, it’s essential to practice the non-manual signals that accompany signs. The raised eyebrows when asking “How Are You” are not just optional; they are part of the grammar of ASL. Practice in front of a mirror to observe your facial expressions alongside your signing. Additionally, try to incorporate this greeting into your daily interactions to become more comfortable with it. This will help solidify your understanding and use of the sign in real-world situations.

Related signs

Hello: A common greeting used at the start of conversations.
Good: Often used in response to “How Are You” to express that one is well.
Sorry: A sign that can be used if someone is not feeling well, adding context to your conversation.
My Friend: You can combine this with “How Are You” to check in on friends specifically.
Fine: A typical response to this question, indicating that everything is okay.

What is the correct handshape for “How Are You”?

The correct handshape is a closed fist with the thumb extended, resembling the letter “A.”

Can you use “How Are You” in a formal setting?

Yes, “How Are You” is appropriate in both informal and formal settings, making it a versatile greeting.

What should my facial expressions be while signing?

Raise your eyebrows slightly while signing to indicate that you are asking a question, which is essential for clarity.

Are there different ways to ask “How Are You”?

Yes, you can use variations like “How are you doing?” which incorporates different signs for “doing.”