whats up in asl
American Sign Language (ASL) is a fascinating and beautiful form of communication that has been used by the deaf and hard of hearing community for centuries. It is a visual language that uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning and communicate thoughts and ideas. In recent years, ASL has gained more recognition and popularity, with an increasing number of people wanting to learn this unique language. One common question that arises among those interested in ASL is, “What’s up in ASL?” In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and delve deeper into the world of ASL.
Before we get into the specifics of what “what’s up” means in ASL, let’s first understand the language itself. ASL is a complete and complex language with its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. It is not just a series of hand gestures or miming, but a fully developed language with its own rules and structure. It is the primary means of communication for the deaf and hard of hearing community in the United States and parts of Canada.
Now, let’s focus on the phrase “what’s up” in ASL. In ASL, the direct translation of “what’s up” is “what’s happening” or “what’s going on.” However, just like any language, there are variations and nuances to this phrase in ASL. The signs used to express this phrase can vary based on the context and the person using it. For instance, a deaf person may use a different sign for “what’s up” compared to a hearing person trying to communicate with a deaf person.
One of the most common signs for “what’s up” in ASL is the sign for “how.” It is formed by making a fist with your dominant hand and placing it in front of your chest. Then, with your palm facing down, you move your hand up and down slightly, as if you are asking “how?” This sign can also be accompanied by a raised eyebrow or a questioning expression to emphasize the meaning. This sign is often used to ask someone how they are doing or to inquire about their well-being.
Another variation of the sign for “what’s up” is the sign for “what.” It is made by forming a closed fist with your dominant hand and placing it in front of your face. With your palm facing towards you, you then move your hand up and down slightly, as if you are asking “what?” This sign is often used to ask about something specific, such as asking for clarification or for more information.
In addition to the signs for “how” and “what,” there are a few other signs that can be used to express “what’s up” in ASL. One of these signs is the sign for “news.” It is formed by making two fists with your dominant hand and placing them together in front of your chest. Then, with your palms facing each other, you move your hands back and forth in a circular motion. This sign is often used to ask someone if they have any news to share or to inquire about the latest happenings.
Another sign that can be used to express “what’s up” in ASL is the sign for “happen.” It is made by forming a closed fist with your dominant hand and placing it in front of your chest. Then, with your palm facing towards you, you move your hand in a small circular motion. This sign is often used to ask someone what is happening or to inquire about events or situations.
It is important to note that the signs for “what’s up” in ASL may differ depending on the region or community. Just like spoken languages, ASL also has dialects and variations. For example, in some parts of the United States, the sign for “news” may be different from the sign used in other regions. Therefore, it is always best to learn from native signers or certified ASL instructors to ensure accuracy and understanding.
In addition to using signs, ASL also relies heavily on facial expressions and body movements to convey meaning. These non-manual signals, as they are called in ASL, are crucial in understanding the nuances of the language. When asking “what’s up” in ASL, it is important to pay attention to the facial expressions and body language of the person you are communicating with. A raised eyebrow or a tilted head can change the meaning of a sign and provide more context to the conversation.
It is also worth mentioning that in ASL, the tone and volume of your voice do not convey meaning. This is because ASL is a visual language, and the deaf community relies on visual cues to understand and communicate. Therefore, it is essential to use appropriate facial expressions and body movements while signing “what’s up” in ASL to convey the intended message effectively.
Apart from just learning the signs for “what’s up” in ASL, it is also crucial to understand the cultural and social aspects of the language. ASL is not just a means of communication, but it also has a rich and vibrant culture associated with it. For instance, in the deaf community, it is considered impolite to interrupt someone while they are signing. Therefore, it is essential to wait for the person to finish speaking before asking “what’s up” or any other question.
Another important aspect to keep in mind when communicating in ASL is to always maintain eye contact with the person you are signing with. This shows respect and attention towards the conversation. Additionally, it is also customary to introduce yourself and state your name when meeting a deaf person for the first time. This is considered a polite gesture and helps in building a rapport with the deaf community.
In conclusion, “what’s up” in ASL is a phrase that can be expressed in various ways, depending on the context and the person using it. It is important to understand the different signs and non-manual signals associated with this phrase to effectively communicate in ASL. Learning ASL not only allows for better communication with the deaf community but also opens up a whole new world of culture and language. So, next time someone asks you, “What’s up in ASL?” you know how to respond with confidence and understanding.
best dating apps for teens
As technology continues to advance, the world of dating has also evolved. Gone are the days of meeting someone at a coffee shop or through a mutual friend. Now, more and more people are turning to dating apps to find their potential partners. And this trend is not just limited to adults, as even teenagers are joining in on the fun. In fact, there are now numerous dating apps specifically designed for teens, making it easier for them to connect with others their age. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best dating apps for teens and how they are changing the dating scene for this younger generation.
1. Tinder
Tinder is one of the most popular dating apps in the market, and it’s not just limited to adults. The app has a separate section for teenagers, called “Tinder U”, which is specifically designed for college students. This allows teens to connect with others their age who are in the same school or nearby universities. Tinder uses a swiping system, where users can swipe right if they like someone or swipe left if they don’t. If both users swipe right on each other, it’s a match and they can start messaging each other. With its simple interface and wide user base, Tinder is a great option for teens looking to meet new people.
2. Bumble
Bumble is another popular dating app that has gained a lot of traction in recent years. Similar to Tinder, it also uses a swiping system, but with a twist. In heterosexual matches, the female user has to make the first move within 24 hours, or the match disappears. This puts the power in the hands of the women and eliminates the pressure of receiving unwanted messages from men. Bumble also has a separate section for teenagers, called “Bumble BFF”, where they can connect with others for friendship rather than dating. This feature makes Bumble a safer option for teens who may not be ready for a romantic relationship yet.
3. Hinge
Hinge is a dating app that focuses on building real connections rather than just casual hookups. It uses a system called “Your Turn” where users can respond to prompts and questions on a person’s profile, making it easier to start a conversation. This feature also helps in getting to know someone’s personality and interests before swiping right. Hinge has a separate section for teens, called “Hinge U”, which is only available for users with a .edu email address. This ensures that users are in college and of the same age group, making it a safe option for teens.
4. Yubo
Yubo is a social media app that allows teens to connect with others their age from all over the world. It has a “Tinder-like” feature where users can swipe left or right on profiles, but it also has a live streaming option. This feature allows users to broadcast themselves and interact with others in real-time. Yubo also has strict safety measures in place, such as mandatory age verification through a phone number and a reporting system for inappropriate behavior. With its global reach and interactive features, Yubo is a popular option among teens looking to make new friends.
5. Spotafriend
Spotafriend is a dating app specifically designed for teenagers aged 13 to 19. It has a similar swiping system to Tinder, but with stricter age verification measures. Users have to verify their age by taking a selfie, and the app uses AI technology to detect if the user is indeed a teenager. Spotafriend also has a “Spotlight” feature where users can promote their profile to get more matches. This app is a great option for teens who are looking for a safe and age-appropriate dating app.
6. Teenber
Teenber is another dating app that is exclusively for teenagers. It has a simple interface and a swiping system similar to Tinder. What sets Teenber apart is its emphasis on building friendships, as well as romantic relationships. It also has a feature called “Teenber University” where users can join groups based on their interests and connect with others who share the same hobbies. This makes Teenber a great option for teens who want to expand their social circle and potentially meet someone special.
7. MyLOL
MyLOL is a popular dating app for teenagers, with over 300,000 members worldwide. It allows users to create a profile, add photos, and chat with others. MyLOL also has a “Nearby” feature where users can see other members who are in the same location as them. This makes it easier for teens to meet and connect with others in their area. The app also has a strict policy against inappropriate content and behavior, making it a safe option for teenagers.
8. Crush.zone
Crush.zone is a dating app for teenagers that focuses on building meaningful relationships. It has a swiping system similar to Tinder, but it also has a “Secret Admirer” feature. This feature allows users to anonymously like someone, and if the other person likes them back, it’s a match. Crush.zone also has a “Safe Mode” feature where users can choose to only interact with verified members, making it a safe option for teens.
9. Skout
Skout is a social media and dating app that allows users to connect with others from all over the world. It has a “Shake to Chat” feature where users can shake their phone to be connected with someone new. Skout also has a travel feature where users can plan trips and meet locals in the area. This makes it a great option for teens who want to expand their social circle and potentially meet someone special from a different country.
10. Taffy
Taffy is a unique dating app that puts the focus on getting to know someone’s personality rather than just their looks. It uses a “blur” feature where the profile pictures of users are initially blurred, and they become clearer as the conversation progresses. This encourages users to engage in meaningful conversations and get to know each other better before swiping right. Taffy also has a strict policy against inappropriate content and behavior, making it a safe option for teens.
In conclusion, dating apps for teens are becoming more and more popular, and for a good reason. They provide a safe and convenient way for teenagers to meet and connect with others their age. However, it’s important for parents to monitor their children’s usage of these apps and educate them about online safety. With the right guidance, these apps can be a great way for teens to make new friends and potentially find a romantic partner.