How to Sign "Months"
To sign "months," start by holding your non-dominant hand in a "1" handshape, with the index finger pointing up and the palm facing sideways. Make a "1" handshape with your dominant hand as well, pointing the index finger horizontally. Place the dominant index finger behind the tip of the non-dominant index finger, then slide it down the back of the finger. Repeat this downward sliding motion to indicate the plural "months."
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "month" is highly visual and rooted in the concept of tracking time. The upright non-dominant index finger represents a traditional wall calendar or a timeline. The dominant index finger sliding down represents tracing the weeks as they pass on that calendar. Repeating the motion visually shows multiple calendar pages or months going by.
Signing Tips
When signing "months," the repetition of the downward movement is key to showing the plural form. A single downward slide means "month," while repeating the slide indicates multiple "months." Keep your non-dominant hand perfectly steady, acting as a fixed reference point, and let your dominant hand do all the moving to keep the sign clear.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is moving both hands during the sign. Remember that your non-dominant hand should remain completely still, acting as the base. Another frequent error is only sliding the dominant finger down once, which accidentally changes the meaning to the singular "month" instead of the plural "months."
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Months" in a Sentence
1I have been learning ASL for three months.
You can sign 'three' and then 'months,' or seamlessly blend them by using a '3' handshape on your dominant hand as it slides down your non-dominant index finger.
2Summer vacation is two months away.
Sign 'two' followed by the repeated downward motion for 'months,' and then use a forward-moving sign like 'future' to indicate that the months are coming up.
3The project took several months to finish.
Use the sign for 'several' followed by the repeated downward motion of 'months' to emphasize the extended duration of the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I show a specific number of months, like 'four months'?
For numbers one through nine, you can use 'numeral incorporation.' Instead of using the '1' handshape on your dominant hand, use the handshape for the specific number (like '4') and slide it down your non-dominant index finger.
What is the exact difference between 'month' and 'months'?
The difference lies entirely in the repetition. A single downward slide of the dominant index finger means 'month.' Repeating that downward slide two or three times changes the meaning to the plural 'months.'
Does my palm orientation matter for my non-dominant hand?
Yes, your non-dominant palm should face sideways (inward toward your body's center). This natural angle allows your dominant index finger to easily and comfortably slide down the back of the non-dominant index finger.
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