Later in Sign Language (ASL)

The sign “Later” is commonly used in American Sign Language to indicate a future time, suggesting that something will happen after the present moment. It reflects the concept of postponement or deferring an action or event. This sign is versatile and can be used in various contexts to clarify plans or expectations.

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Forming the sign

1. Handshape: Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape, fingers extended and together, resembling the letter “B.”
2. Location: Position your hand in front of your body, around chest height.
3. Movement: Move your hand away from your body in a forward motion, extending it slightly outward.
4. Non-manual signals: Maintain a neutral facial expression, but you can slightly raise your eyebrows to emphasize the action of moving forward in time.

The movement of “Later” is crucial, as it emphasizes the idea of looking ahead. The flat handshape and forward movement convey the sense of transitioning into the future. This sign can be used in a variety of scenarios, from casual conversations about plans to more serious discussions about future obligations.

Using “Later” in sentences

In conversations, “Later” can be used to indicate when you will do something or to suggest a future time frame. For example:

• “I will call you later.” (indicating a future time for a phone call)
• “Let’s meet later at the café.” (suggesting a time to gather in the future)
• “I’ll finish this later.” (indicating that you will complete a task at another time)

This flexibility makes “Later” an essential part of everyday conversations in ASL. By incorporating it into your signing, you can communicate time-related concepts effectively.

Signs related to “Later”

There are several signs that convey similar meanings or are used in conjunction with “Later.” These include:

• Tomorrow – Used to discuss the day after today.
• Next – Indicates the following item in a sequence.
• Past – Refers to times that have already occurred.
• Then – Used to suggest a sequence of events in the future.

Common confusion with a similar sign

Many learners of ASL may confuse the sign for “Later” with the sign for “Soon.” While “Later” implies a more extended period before an action occurs, “Soon” suggests a shorter timeframe. Pay close attention to the movement and context to ensure clarity when signing.

FAQ

What is the difference between “Later” and “Soon”?

“Later” indicates a future time that may be further away, while “Soon” refers to a near future time. Understanding this distinction can help convey your intended meaning accurately.

Can “Later” be used in different contexts?

Yes, “Later” can be used in both casual and formal contexts to indicate when something will occur in the future. It’s versatile and applicable in various conversations.

Is there a regional variation for the sign “Later”?

While “Later” is generally signed the same way across various regions, slight variations can exist based on individual signing styles. It’s always good to observe local signers.

How can I practice the sign “Later”?

Practice the sign in sentences, and incorporate it into daily conversations with friends or in signing communities to build confidence. Watching videos of native signers can also help.