“ASL” usually means “American Sign Language.” It is a visual language used by many Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the United States and parts of Canada.
People use ASL in everyday conversation, in schools, at work, and in online videos. You may also see “ASL” in social media chats, where it can mean “age, sex, location,” but the most common meaning is American Sign Language.
Meaning & Usage
ASL is a full language with its own grammar and expressions. People use hand shapes, facial expressions, and body movement to communicate.
Examples
“She is learning ASL so she can talk with her Deaf friends.”
“An interpreter helped translate the speech into ASL.”
Context / Common Use
If someone says “I know ASL,” they usually mean they can sign in American Sign Language. In texting or online chat, though, check the context, because it can sometimes mean “age, sex, location.”
What does ASL stand for?
ASL stands for American Sign Language in most cases.
Is ASL a real language?
Yes. ASL is a complete language with its own rules and structure.
Can ASL mean something else online?
Yes. In some chats, ASL can mean “age, sex, location.”
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