Learn To Sign “Sunglasses” in ASL

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share another ASL tip with you all today. I remember when I first started learning American Sign Language, I was always looking for practical everyday signs. And let me tell you, knowing how to sign 'sunglasses' and 'glasses' comes in super handy, especially when you’re out and about or chatting about your day! The original post gives a great overview for 'sunglasses,' but I wanted to dive a bit deeper and also cover the sign for general 'glasses,' which is a slightly different, but equally important, sign to master. Many people search for 'how to sign glasses in ASL' or 'ASL sign for glasses,' and it’s a fundamental part of everyday conversation. So, for 'sunglasses' in ASL, as mentioned, you take both hands in a 'C' shape, palms facing inward. You bring them up to your eyes, as if you’re putting on a pair of shades, and then move them slightly forward. Think of it as framing your eyes. A little tip I learned: sometimes people will do the sign for 'sun' first – that motion of bringing your index finger and thumb together at your chin and then drawing your hand outward – and then the 'glasses' sign. This clearly distinguishes 'sunglasses' (sun + glasses) from just regular 'glasses.' It really helps for clarity in a conversation! Now, for just plain 'glasses' in ASL, it’s even simpler. You still use both hands in that 'C' shape, but you simply bring them up to your eyes, as if you’re putting on regular spectacles. You don't usually add the outward movement or the 'sun' sign. It’s a quick, concise way to refer to corrective eyewear. I find it so interesting how ASL can be so descriptive with just a few hand movements! One common mistake I’ve seen beginners make is confusing the two, or not making the 'C' shape clear enough, which can sometimes look like you’re signing 'eyes' (which is just pointing to your eyes). So, remember to really emphasize that 'C' shape to represent the frames. Why is this important? Well, whether you’re discussing fashion, eye health, or just the weather, these signs are surprisingly versatile. Imagine seeing a cool pair of shades, perhaps with a design reminiscent of a DALI painting (those surreal, unique frames!), and wanting to sign about them. Or perhaps you’re talking about needing to get your vision checked, and you need to sign 'glasses.' Understanding these nuances enriches your ASL conversations. Another useful related sign is 'see' or 'look,' which often involves pointing two fingers from your eye outward. This can come in handy when you're talking about seeing something through your glasses or sunglasses. Practicing these signs in context is key. Try forming a sentence in your head: "I wear my sunglasses when the sun is bright," and then signing each word. It helps solidify the vocabulary. There are so many resources out there, from 'learn on Lemon8' posts to online ASL dictionaries, that can help reinforce your learning. Don't be afraid to practice in front of a mirror or even with a friend who's also learning. The more you use them, the more natural they'll become. I truly believe that learning ASL opens up a whole new world of communication and understanding. Keep practicing these signs for 'sunglasses,' 'glasses,' and other everyday objects, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your vocabulary grows. Happy signing!