Today in Sign Language (ASL)

The sign for Today is an essential part of American Sign Language, used to indicate the present day or the current time. This sign is commonly used in everyday conversations, allowing individuals to express ideas related to time and schedule. Understanding how to correctly sign Today can help in various contexts, such as discussing plans or talking about events happening right now.

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Forming the sign

1. Handshape: Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” shape, meaning your fingers are extended and close together, with the palm facing downward.
2. Location: Position your hand approximately in front of your waist, at the center of your body.
3. Movement: Move your dominant hand forward in a slight arc, keeping the motion smooth and natural. This motion represents the passage of time from the past into the present.
4. Non-manual signals: Maintain a neutral facial expression to convey clarity. You can raise your eyebrows slightly during the movement for added emphasis if needed.

This motion visually captures the essence of today as being the current moment, distinct from yesterday or tomorrow. Mastering the nuances of this sign will enhance your ability to communicate effectively about daily events.

Using “Today” in sentences

In ASL, “Today” can be used in various contexts. For example, you might sign “Today is sunny” to describe the weather. Or you could say, “I will meet you today” to indicate a specific meeting time. This sign fits well into both simple and complex sentences, allowing for fluid conversation.

Examples include:

• Today I have a meeting. – Sign “Today,” followed by “I” and then “have” with a firm handshape.
• Are you free today? – Start with “Are you” and emphasize “today” for clear communication.

Signs related to “Today”

Familiarizing yourself with related signs can enhance your communication skills in ASL. Here are some signs that are relevant:

• Yesterday – Indicates the day before today.
• Tomorrow – Refers to the day after today.
• Now – Signifying the present moment.
• Week – Useful for broader time discussions.

Common confusion with a similar sign

Some learners confuse Today with the sign for “Now.” While both signs relate to time, “Now” is more immediate and urgent, whereas “Today” refers specifically to the entire day. Practicing these signs together can help clarify their distinct meanings.

FAQ

What is the difference between “Today” and “Now”?

“Today” refers to the entire day, while “Now” indicates the current moment. It’s important to use each sign in the correct context to convey your intended meaning accurately.

Can I use “Today” in a question?

Yes, you can use “Today” in questions. For example, “Are you free today?” is a common usage. Just remember to use appropriate facial expressions to indicate that it’s a question.

How can I practice signing “Today”?

Practicing in front of a mirror can help you perfect your handshape and movement. You can also try incorporating it into daily conversations about your plans or events to reinforce your learning.

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

While the sign for “Today” is generally consistent across the United States, some regional variations may exist. It’s beneficial to observe and learn from native signers from different areas.