How to Sign "Como Estas"
To sign "como estas", you will fingerspell the phrase. Spell C-O-M-O, pause briefly to indicate a space, and then spell E-S-T-A-S. Keep your hand steady and at a comfortable height near your shoulder while spelling.
Examples Using "Como Estas" in a Sentence
1
I asked him, 'Como estas?'
Point to the person, sign ASK, and then fingerspell C-O-M-O E-S-T-A-S while raising your eyebrows to indicate a question.
2
She knows how to say 'como estas' in Spanish.
Sign SHE, KNOW, SAY, and then fingerspell C-O-M-O E-S-T-A-S.
3
My friend texted me 'como estas'.
Sign FRIEND, TEXT, and then fingerspell C-O-M-O E-S-T-A-S to show what the message said.
How to Sign "Como Estas"
To sign "como estas", you will fingerspell the phrase. Spell C-O-M-O, pause briefly to indicate a space, and then spell E-S-T-A-S. Keep your hand steady and at a comfortable height near your shoulder while spelling.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is simply the fingerspelled representation of the Spanish phrase 'como estas' (how are you). ASL uses fingerspelling for foreign words or phrases that do not have a dedicated ASL sign.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling a phrase with multiple words like 'como estas', make sure to include a slight pause or a tiny lateral movement between the words to indicate a space. Keep your hand steady and avoid bouncing your hand between letters.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is rushing the fingerspelling and blending the two words together. Take your time to clearly form each letter and remember to include the brief pause between 'como' and 'estas'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Como Estas" in a Sentence
1I asked him, 'Como estas?'
Point to the person, sign ASK, and then fingerspell C-O-M-O E-S-T-A-S while raising your eyebrows to indicate a question.
2She knows how to say 'como estas' in Spanish.
Sign SHE, KNOW, SAY, and then fingerspell C-O-M-O E-S-T-A-S.
3My friend texted me 'como estas'.
Sign FRIEND, TEXT, and then fingerspell C-O-M-O E-S-T-A-S to show what the message said.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific ASL sign for 'como estas'?
No, because 'como estas' is a Spanish phrase. In ASL, you would either sign 'HOW ARE YOU' or fingerspell the Spanish words if you specifically want to reference the Spanish phrase.
How do I show the space between 'como' and 'estas'?
You can show a space by pausing briefly after finishing 'como' or by shifting your hand slightly to the right before starting the word 'estas'.
Should I mouth the words while fingerspelling?
You can naturally mouth 'como estas' while fingerspelling to help convey the phrase clearly to your conversation partner, especially since it is a foreign phrase.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!