Leave in Sign Language (ASL)

The sign “Leave” is used to convey the action of departing from a place or situation. It can express both physical and metaphorical departures, such as leaving a room or ending a conversation. This sign is essential for everyday communication in various contexts.

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Forming the sign

1. Handshape: Start with your dominant hand open in a flat position, fingers extended and together. This handshape resembles a flat ‘B’ handshape.
2. Location: Position your hand in front of your body, usually at about waist level. This is where the action of leaving is initiated.
3. Movement: Move your dominant hand away from your body in a forward direction, as if you are pushing something away. The motion should be fluid and should extend outward.
4. Non-manual signals: Incorporate facial expressions to emphasize the action. A slight nod or a determined look can enhance the meaning of leaving, signifying decisiveness or finality.

When forming the sign “Leave,” it’s important to ensure that the movement is clear and intentional, as this conveys the significance of the action. Practicing in front of a mirror can help you perfect the gesture and facial expressions associated with leaving.

Showing tense, aspect & repetition

In ASL, verbs can be modified to indicate tense or aspect. For “Leave,” you can show past, present, or future actions by modifying your facial expressions and the movement of your hand. For example:

• Past tense: Use a more exaggerated movement backward from the original position to indicate that someone has already left.
• Present tense: The standard sign with forward movement effectively indicates the current action of leaving.
• Future tense: You might slightly lean forward during the sign, indicating an intention to leave soon.

Repetition can also signify habitual actions. For example, repeating the sign in quick succession can imply that someone frequently leaves a particular place, like a workplace or home.

“Leave” in everyday signing

In daily conversations, “Leave” can be used in various contexts. Here are a few examples:

• To indicate departing from a gathering, you might sign “Leave” followed by a sign for “Party.”
• In discussions about relationships, you could pair “Leave” with “Friend” to express the notion of ending a friendship.
• In more casual dialogue, you might use the sign to indicate taking a break or stepping out for a moment.

Understanding the nuances of when to use “Leave” will enhance your fluency in ASL and help convey your intentions clearly.

Common confusion with a similar sign

Many learners confuse “Leave” with the sign for “Go,” which also involves a forward motion. However, “Leave” specifically conveys the notion of departing from a current situation or location, while “Go” can refer to simply moving from one place to another without the same connotation of departure. Being mindful of context and using appropriate facial expressions can help clarify the intended meaning.

FAQ

What is the difference between “Leave” and “Go”?

“Leave” typically implies departing from a location or situation, while “Go” refers to the act of moving to another place without the same emphasis on departure.

Can “Leave” be used in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, “Leave” can also be used metaphorically, such as when discussing leaving a relationship or situation, not just physical places.

How can I emphasize the urgency of “Leave”?

You can emphasize urgency by using a more pronounced movement and a facial expression that conveys determination or haste.

Is there a sign for “Leave” in different contexts?

Yes, you can use “Leave” in various contexts, such as leaving a party, a job, or a conversation. Contextual signs can enhance clarity.

What should I avoid when signing “Leave”?

Avoid making the movement too slow or unclear, as it may convey hesitation rather than the decisive action of leaving.