The deaf community relies heavily on sign language to communicate. With over 300 different sign languages used globally, there are diverse ways to sign words and phrases among the deaf. When wanting to apologize in sign language, specific signs get used to convey regret or remorse. Knowing how to sign “sorry” properly shows respect and care when communicating with the deaf. This article will explore the techniques, origins, and importance of signing apologies in deaf culture.
Techniques for Signing Sorry
There are a few common ways to sign “sorry” or “apology” in sign languages. Here are some of the most popular signs:
The “Sorry” Sign
The most direct sign is the “sorry” sign. To make this sign, place your dominant hand in a loose fist in front of your chest. Move your fist in a small counter-clockwise circle a couple of times while maintaining eye contact and an apologetic facial expression. This quick circular motion against the chest indicates regret.
The “My Mistake” Sign
Another technique is signing “my mistake.” To sign this, make a C-shape with your dominant hand. Place the hand upright in front of your chest. Twist the C-shaped hand back and forth to indicate acknowledging an error on your part. Maintain eye contact to convey sincerity.
The “Forgive Me” Sign
Signing “forgive me” is another common apology technique. For this sign, hold both hands in loose fists in front of your chest, knuckles facing inward. Move both fists down and inward in a diagonal motion toward your torso. This symbolic movement indicates asking for forgiveness. Pair it with an apologetic facial expression.
The “Apologize” Sign
Some sign languages have a unique sign for “apologize.” For example, in ASL, you make an A-handshape with your dominant hand in front of your mouth. Move the hand downward as your mouth says “sorry.” This combines the handsign for “apology” with the spoken word.
Origins of Apology Signs
Sign languages developed organically within deaf communities globally. As with spoken languages, specific signs may have origins based on visual imagery, handshapes, mouthing of words, and regional influences.
Visual Imagery
Some apology signs directly depict physical motions associated with apologizing. For instance, the “sorry” circular fist sign against the chest mimics rubbing or tapping one’s chest to display remorse. The diagonal downward motion of the “forgive me” sign evokes kneeling down to beg forgiveness.
Handshapes
Certain handshapes may get used for apology signs because of symbolic meanings. The C-hand twisted on the chest for “my mistake” portrays acknowledging an error. The A-hand touching the mouth in ASL’s “apologize” sign visually connects speaking the word “sorry.”
Mouthing Words
Oral languages influence signs too. Mouthing “sorry” while signing in ASL reinforces the meaning. The sign’s downward motion also mimics the mouth’s shapes when speaking the word.
Regional Influences
Local deaf culture affects how signs develop. Signs can vary across dialects. The specific technique for “sorry” in one country may differ from another’s. Cultural context shapes sign languages’ growth.
Importance of Apologizing Properly in Deaf Culture
Sincerely apologizing using culturally appropriate sign language is vital for communicating respectfully with the deaf. Here are some reasons why the way you sign “sorry” matters:
Shows Competence in Sign Language
Taking the time to learn apology signs beyond just finger spelling “S-O-R-R-Y” demonstrates competence in sign language. It conveys you respect deaf culture by understanding the nuances of signing.
Displays Empathy
Using apologetic facial expressions and body language when signing exhibits empathy. It shows you connect emotionally with the meaning behind the apology.
Acknowledges Responsibility
Signing “my mistake” underscores that you take responsibility for the offense. Avoid making excuses or shifting blame when apologizing.
Opens Dialogue
A sincere signed apology can open the door to deeper dialogue. It breaks down barriers allowing for open communication, understanding, and forgiveness.
Builds Trust
Owning up to mistakes respectfully fosters further trust in relationships. Apologizing well through sign demonstrates your reliability and good intentions.
| Sign Language | “Sorry” Sign |
|---|---|
| ASL (American) | A-hand near mouth, pulled down |
| BSL (British) | Fist circle on chest |
| Auslan (Australian) | Flat hand on chin, moved forward |
| ISL (Irish) | Dominant hand touches mouth |
Conclusion
Apologizing respectfully is important in any language, including sign language. Specific techniques for signing “sorry” or “apology” have developed in deaf communities globally. Visually depicting regret through hand motions, facial expressions, and body language can convey sincerity. Taking the time to sign an apology properly fosters trust and open communication with the deaf. It demonstrates competence in sign language and consideration for deaf culture. With understanding and empathy, connecting across languages and cultures gets strengthened through the simple but profound gesture of saying “I’m sorry.”