Yo, You Wanna Sign "Philly" Like a Boss? We Got You Covered (Yo! It's Easier Than You Think)
Living in the City of Brotherly Love and wanna impress your deaf friends with your mad ASL skills? You've come to the cheesesteak-smelling, Liberty Bell-ringing right place. Because let's face it, just saying "Philly" sounds a bit...well, boring. Today, we're gonna break you free from the shackles of spoken word and show you how to sign "Philadelphia" like a true ASL wiz.
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| How To Sign Philadelphia In Asl |
The "P" is Silent (But Not Really)
There are actually two ways to sign "Philadelphia" in ASL, but before you get overwhelmed, fear not! Both are super easy to learn. Here's the first way:
- Make the "P" handshape: This is the classic ASL "P." Extend your index finger and thumb while keeping your other fingers curled in.
- Draw a fancy "7" in the air: Imagine a funky "7" with a bit of a flourish at the end. Starting with your "P" hand near your chin, flick your wrist upwards and outwards, tracing a diagonal line that ends in a slight downward hook.
Pro Tip: Think of it as signing a fancy "P" that wants to fly away like a rogue Frisbee.
The "Local Lingo" Option (Philly Cheeseteak Not Included)
Now, here's the thing. Philadelphia has a long and proud deaf community, and like any good city, they've developed their own unique signs for certain things. You might encounter this alternative way to sign "Philly":
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
- Think Liberty Bell: Make a fist with your dominant hand.
- Ring, Ring, Revolution!: With your fist facing forward, shake it rapidly back and forth a few times.
The reasoning? The Liberty Bell is a Philly icon, and the shaking motion represents its famous ringing. Pretty cool, huh?
But here's the catch: This sign is more commonly used within the Philadelphia deaf community. If you're just visiting, the "fancy P" method is a safe bet.
So, You've Mastered the Sign. Now What?
Now that you can sign "Philly" like a champ, you're ready to impress your deaf friends and confuse the pigeons on the street. Remember, ASL is all about communication and having fun. Don't be afraid to practice and experiment!
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
## Frequently Asked Questions (ASL Edition):
How to ask someone if they know ASL?
Make the sign for "question" (raised eyebrows and a head tilt) followed by the sign for "sign language" (wiggle your fingers near your ear).
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
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How to say "cheese steak" in ASL?
There isn't a specific sign for "cheese steak," but you can describe it! Make the sign for "bread" (slicing motion with two flat hands), then sign "cheese" (place the back of your hand near your mouth) and "steak" (form a fist with your pinky extended, then pretend to cut a slice).
How to learn more ASL?
QuickTip: Scan for summary-style sentences.
There are tons of resources available! Check out online tutorials, ASL classes, or even connect with your local deaf community center.
How to impress a deaf person?
The most important thing is to be respectful and patient. Learn a few basic signs, smile, and make eye contact.
How to avoid confusing pigeons?
Well, that one might be a challenge. But hey, at least you'll be signing with confidence!
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