To sign "Are you deaf?", start by pointing your index finger directly at the person you are talking to. Next, sign "deaf" by touching your index finger to your cheek near your ear, then moving it in a small arch to touch near your mouth. Crucially, keep your eyebrows raised and lean your head forward slightly while signing; this facial expression is required in ASL to show you are asking a yes/no question.
Wave gently or tap the person on the shoulder to get their attention, then sign 'you deaf' while keeping your eyebrows raised to indicate a question.
Sign 'I learn ASL', then pause slightly before asking 'you deaf?' Remember to lean forward and raise your eyebrows for the second part.
Sign 'you deaf', then shift your shoulders slightly to one side and sign 'hard of hearing' to offer the two choices as a question.
Wave gently or tap the person on the shoulder to get their attention, then sign 'you deaf' while keeping your eyebrows raised to indicate a question.
Sign 'I learn ASL', then pause slightly before asking 'you deaf?' Remember to lean forward and raise your eyebrows for the second part.
Sign 'you deaf', then shift your shoulders slightly to one side and sign 'hard of hearing' to offer the two choices as a question.
No, ASL does not use 'to be' verbs like 'am', 'is', or 'are'. You simply sign 'you deaf' and use your facial expression to turn the phrase into a question.
It is generally not rude if you are genuinely trying to establish the best way to communicate, especially if you are learning ASL. Just be polite, friendly, and respectful in your approach.
Yes! The sign for 'deaf' can move from the ear to the mouth, or from the mouth to the ear. Both directions are completely acceptable and commonly used in the Deaf community.
