ASL Deafined Blog

I Can’t Find This Word! What Should I Do?
ASL Deafined Blog   We have a truly massive dictionary on our site- but what happens when you can’t find a word? After typing in the word you are searching for it will pull up potential matches and synonyms. If the word isn’t available you can request it- no really! It’s that easy! For a visual step-by-step, take a […]
Thu, Jul 20 2017

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Our Dictionary
ASL Deafined Blog Our dictionary, consisting of THOUSANDS of videos, holds a few hidden secrets:   1. Sign variations and synonyms are shown at the bottom of each video. We have links to sign variations right at the bottom of the video! You can also find synonyms here.   2. You can add words to a list for review […]
Sun, Jul 16 2017

Study Tool Feature: Slow-Mo!
ASL Deafined Blog “GAH! This video is way too fast!! I’ve watched it 1,000 times! HELP!” Don’t worry! ASLdeafined has a handy-dandy feature to help you out: If you find a video is a bit fast, just select the box in the upper-left hand corner of the video and BOOM- you’re in business! Check out how helpful it is for […]
Fri, Jul 14 2017

Getting a Deaf person’s attention
ASL Deafined Blog Although this seems like common sense, it’s important to reiterate the proper way to get a Deaf person’s attention.  Do NOT: throw things, hit, shove, yell as loud as you can, etc. to get someone’s attention.  Just like with a hearing person, treat them with respect.  All you need to do is a light tap […]
Wed, Jul 12 2017

Do’s and don’ts of passing through a conversation
ASL Deafined Blog When two, or more, Deaf people are conversing there are do’s and don’ts regarding how to pass by.  In the examples below, Angela will show you the right and wrong ways to pass by. This is how you should NOT pass through a conversation…     Watch as Angela walks rudely in between Mindy and […]
Wed, Jul 12 2017

What to do when someone is signing too fast
ASL Deafined Blog There may be times when you come across a person who signs at a faster speed than you’re use to.  Don’t panic, especially if you’re still learning the language.  Simply ask the person to slow down and remind them that you’re still learning. Watch as Kelly lets Diana know that she is signing too fast […]
Wed, Jul 12 2017

Eye contact in the Deaf Community
ASL Deafined Blog Just like in the hearing community, it’s very important to maintain eye contact in conversations.  In the Deaf community, once you break eye contact you are no longer listening to the other person.  This is considered to be rude and disrespectful. Watch how Kelly loses focus and breaks eye contact with Diana during their conversation…
Wed, Jul 12 2017

Handshape Review – ‘C’
ASL Deafined Blog Handshapes can get tricky at times- and today we are going to focus on the ‘C’ handshape! For a quick review, here are ten signs that use the ‘C’ handshape: Drink Cup Cousin Search Burger Treasure Weird Desire Giraffe Picture   You know what’s cool? ASLdeafined had an option to look up handshapes- so you […]
Fri, Jul 07 2017

Interpreter Training Program Students
ASL Deafined Blog It is only right to recognize all of the future Interpreter Training Program (ITP) students.  I would like to thank them for considering the interpreting profession. Across the United States, we are in desperate need of interpreters.  I am so grateful for students who want to become interpreters for the Deaf.  And, even though many […]
Mon, Jul 03 2017

Learning ASL- What To Watch Out For!
ASL Deafined Blog There are a few great resources out there to help you learn American Sign Language, but not all websites are created equal! How do you know for sure you’re observing accurate Sign Language? How can we tell the difference? Before signing up for just any ol’ site, go through this quick checklist: 1. How old […]
Thu, Jun 29 2017

Vlog – LGBT Signs
ASL Deafined Blog Jenna took some time to show you guys some LGBT-friendly signs! Take a Look!
Fri, Jun 23 2017

The Telephone Game: A Hidden Retention Exercise
ASL Deafined Blog Why Play? Learning American Sign Languages has it’s challenges, and luckily there are fun ways to practice! A student’s retention, or their ability to understand ASL, can be a toughie to develop. Good thing we have “The Telephone Game!” How To Play: All students should line up in two rows, facing away from the Judge (teacher […]
Fri, Jun 16 2017

Gilbert Baker & The Flag – LGBT Pride Month
ASL Deafined Blog A Quick History of the LGBT Flag Gilbert Baker was recently portrayed in Dustin Lance Black’s When We Rise and is the creator of the iconic LGBT flag and it’s proud rainbow. The originally had eight colors, and is show in the photo to the left: This particular flag stretched over two kilometers of Key West […]
Fri, Jun 09 2017

Deaf Expert of the Month: Mindy!
ASL Deafined Blog You see a LOT of Mindy on our site and Facebook page- And it’s no surprise she’s our Deaf Expert of the Month! Whenever you need a big smile, she’s there to help! We LOVE her enthusiasm! Here she is signing EXCITED: Mindy was born deaf, and graduated from Madonna University with a bachelor’s degree […]
Fri, Jun 02 2017

ASL vs BSL – Turtles!
ASL Deafined Blog This week we celebrated Turtle Day! We LOVE the sign for turtle in ASL- that cute little shell! – but did you know the sign for turtle is JUST as cute in British Sign Language?   We sign this (ASL):   Our neighbors across the pond sign the word turtle like this: [link] It looks […]
Fri, May 26 2017

“You’re deaf? How do you drive?!”
ASL Deafined Blog A Satire by Jenna V.   Deaf people living in India have recently gained the right to drive, and I wanted to answer some questions regarding us ‘dangerous’ deaf motorists! Here is a list of FAQs that I get about driving, and my response:   1. So… you’re deaf. How do you get to work?  Well since […]
Thu, May 18 2017

Questions Often Asked to a Sign Language Interpreter
ASL Deafined Blog As an interpreter, many questions are asked by the general public.  Which some are shocking to me.  And, looking back, it shouldn’t be so surprising that people who are not familiar with Deaf culture I wanted to share some of these questions with you… Are you Deaf? This question gets asked a lot.  It is […]
Sun, May 14 2017

Congratulations to our Deaf Expert of the Month: Benjamin!
ASL Deafined Blog We could go on for hours about our deaf experts and Benjamin is no exception! Born Deaf, into a Deaf family, Benjamin grew up with sign language his first language. A graduate of Lasher High School, in Bloomfield Hills, MI, Benjamin worked in play productions for many years, culminating in co-directing Charlie and the Chocolate […]
Sat, May 13 2017

A Thank You Note to Interpreters
ASL Deafined Blog by Jenna, Deaf Expert Interpreters, thank you for always helping us out. You’re the ones who help me figure out my teacher’s instructions, my doctor’s advice, and my family’s worries over the phone. You tell jokes and share stories with me while we wait for the teacher to show up, and are just plain friendly […]
Fri, May 05 2017

6 Study Habits To Help You Ace That Final!
ASL Deafined Blog Let’s face it, we could use all the help we can get. Here’s some helpful tips to study better for that test! Make a schedule– there’s plenty of time between Netflix shows to study. Have a quiet study space. This means turning down your music too. Clear your mind of noise and clutter for the best […]
Fri, Apr 28 2017

ASL Teachers…Have You Seen Us Lately?
ASL Deafined Blog If you teach ASL at the collegiate or high school level, you owe it to yourself and to your students to take a look at what we have to offer.  Not only do we offer our entire program for $12.00 per student for the ENTIRE CALENDAR YEAR, but we have so many features that will suite […]
Sat, Apr 22 2017

You Asked, We Answered! – Slow Button on Videos
ASL Deafined Blog Many of you asked about a possible slow button on ASLdeafined for the videos in our 16,000 + dictionary and for the 300 + lessons.  Well, just this afternoon, we were able to complete and implement the “slow button” on our website.  You have to try this new feature out!  It is awesome.  I absolutely […]
Wed, Apr 19 2017

Personalize Your Own Dictionary on ASLdeafined
ASL Deafined Blog You can now personalize your own dictionary on ASLdeafined.  Simply find the words you prefer in the dictionary. Once you click on a word in the dictionary, you will see “Add to My Vocabulary”. Click that. And all your words will be saved under the icon “My Vocabulary”. Then, if you want to review all of […]
Sat, Apr 08 2017

ASLdeafined’s Video Dictionary has Reached over 16,000...
ASL Deafined Blog On ASLdeafined, our video dictionary has now reached over 16,000 words signed by Deaf experts.  Also, we just tripled the size of the video screen.  I believe they can almost see our video dictionary screen from Space.  If by chance you cannot find a word you need, we will be glad to provide it for you.  Simply click […]
Sun, Apr 02 2017

A New Homepage for ASLdeafined.com
ASL Deafined Blog Whoa! We did it. Finally, ASLdeafined.com underwent an Extreme Makeover. I cannot wait for you to see it. Not only are the videos recorded by Deaf experts, but also added new features. One of the features is about "handshapes". Once you login into ASLdeafined.com, you will see a tab on the Navigation bar that says "handshapes". Click on any one that is listed there. Y...
Sun, Mar 12 2017
HenkokeNRS liked this

Put yourself in our hands…
ASL Deafined Blog It would be remiss if an organization founded on the idea of building connections between communities did not acknowledge that the United States finds itself in a reportedly divided time, as is often the case during Presidential Election years. Yet, … Continue reading →
Thu, Dec 08 2016

ASLdeafined.com New Features and Deaf Experts!
ASL Deafined Blog I am thrilled to tell you about some major upgrades to ASLdeafined.com that happened August 15, 2016. ASLdeafined has been undergoing an “Extreme” makeover during the exhaustive past four months.  These changes are now live.  The results are spectacular, and I am very pleased to … Continue reading →
Mon, Nov 14 2016

ASLdeafined.com New Features and Deaf Experts!
ASL Deafined Blog I am thrilled to tell you about some major upgrades to ASLdeafined.com that happened August 15, 2016. ASLdeafined has been undergoing an “Extreme” makeover during the exhaustive past four months.  These changes are now live.  The results are spectacular, and I am very pleased to … Continue reading →
Mon, Aug 22 2016

Are You Up-To-Date?
ASL Deafined Blog This vintage biography by Etta Degering, entitled GALLAUDET, Friend of the Deaf, may quite rightfully be judged by its cover. The obviously outdated design and condition of this book, first published in 1964, is unlikely to interest the modern reader. … Continue reading →
Mon, Aug 22 2016

Running Out of Time
ASL Deafined Blog It is a rare day in this modern world when we feel like we actually have some spare time. Many attribute it to the fact that the lines between work and leisure are blurred with the increase in portable technologies … Continue reading →
Mon, Aug 22 2016

Are You Up-To-Date?
ASL Deafined Blog This vintage biography by Etta Degering, entitled GALLUDET, Friend of the Deaf, may quite rightfully be judged by its cover. The obviously outdated design and condition of this book, first published in 1964, is unlikely to interest the modern reader. … Continue reading →
Wed, Jun 22 2016

Running Out of Time
ASL Deafined Blog It is a rare day in this modern world when we feel like we actually have some spare time. Many attribute it to the fact that the lines between work and leisure are blurred with the increase in portable technologies … Continue reading →
Tue, Jun 07 2016
pitasvmn liked this

Follow the Sun
ASL Deafined Blog Starting to learn a new skill or revisiting one that is rusty can become overwhelming. Whether you have decided to tap dance, take up the piano, do some woodworking or learn American Sign Language, there are times when you will … Continue reading →
Tue, May 31 2016

We couldn’t agree more with Fellini. Language is a...
ASL Deafined Blog We couldn’t agree more with Fellini. Language is a different vision of life, quite literally in the case of Sign Language! Anyone exposed to the beauty of ASL does not easily forget this unique and vital form of communication. So, … Continue reading →
Thu, May 26 2016

What’s for lunch today?
ASL Deafined Blog How about a side of American Sign Language? In case you weren’t already aware, ASLdeafined offers an extensive video vocabulary! If subscribing to one of our lesson packages isn’t quite what you are looking for on the menu today, consider … Continue reading →
Tue, May 24 2016

The Weekend is on The Way!
ASL Deafined Blog The weekend is on the way! Hopefully that means a chance for you to spend some quality time with your family and friends, young and old and in-between. We bet you won’t be surprised if we suggest that you bond … Continue reading →
Fri, May 20 2016

Don’t Leave Your Learning Out To Dry…
ASL Deafined Blog It is a sunny day in our home base of Metro Detroit, Michigan… a perfect time to let your laundry dry on the line. That said, it is not the best idea to leave your American Sign Language learning out to dry. Just … Continue reading →
Thu, May 19 2016

What is ASLdeafined about?
ASL Deafined Blog Education. Communication. Connection. Inclusion. ASLdeafined was founded on the simple philosophy that learning American Sign Language (ASL) is a rewarding way for people to exercise their brain, improve communication with others, make connections with new people and, most importantly, take another step toward a … Continue reading →
Mon, May 16 2016

Good Morning, ASL Learners!
ASL Deafined Blog All of us at ASLdeafined hope that this post finds you happy, healthy, wealthy and wisely ready to refresh your American Sign Language learning (or possibly consider signing up for our service if you have not tried it yet!) Although our blog has … Continue reading →
Thu, Apr 28 2016

Where do we go from here?
ASL Deafined Blog There are many reasons that a person could decide to learn ASL, but one of the greatest benefits is being able to interact with the Deaf community.  Naturally I can only speak from experience with my regional Deaf community, but … Continue reading →
Wed, Jul 31 2013

Secrets, Secrets, Everywhere!!
ASL Deafined Blog Have you ever been in a situation where it felt like everyone knew something that you didn’t?  It was pretty uncomfortable, wasn’t it?  This is the world that Deaf people have to traverse every day.  They are surrounded by people … Continue reading →
Thu, Jul 18 2013

Help! I see Deaf People!
ASL Deafined Blog Help!  I see Deaf People! So now that you have some knowledge of ASL and Deaf Culture, you will begin to notice more Deaf people around you.  Yes, they have always been there; you are just now becoming aware of … Continue reading →
Mon, Jul 15 2013

To be or….nope, not to be
ASL Deafined Blog One of the most interesting and unique parts of ASL is the fact that the verb “to be” is absent from the language.  This is something that you have already learned, but may not be aware that you know. For … Continue reading →
Thu, Jul 11 2013

Deaf Culture #15
ASL Deafined Blog Deaf people use a videophone more often than seeing each other in person? This is true.  While the Deaf community is close knit, it is also spread nationwide.  You may meet a friend at a Deaf retreat, a convention, or … Continue reading →
Wed, May 15 2013

Deaf Culture #14
ASL Deafined Blog All deaf people use Hearing Aides? This is false.  If you have such a profound hearing loss that only the loudest of noises (think close range jumbo jet), a hearing aid would be completely ineffective.  Deaf people can have an … Continue reading →
Wed, May 15 2013

Deaf Culture #13
ASL Deafined Blog NTID stands for: National Technical Institute for the Deaf? True! NTID is located in Rochester, New York, and is one of nine colleges within RIT (Rochester Institute of Technology).  Started in 1967, the school’s mission is to give Deaf and … Continue reading →
Wed, May 15 2013

Deaf Culture #10
ASL Deafined Blog When talking with a deaf person through an interpreter, always look at the interpreter? This is false, although it is one of the hardest things for a hearing person to master.  From early childhood we are taught to give our … Continue reading →
Wed, May 15 2013

Deaf Culture Quiz #9
ASL Deafined Blog Deaf people should wear contrasting colors in order for people to see their signs? Not necessarily.  In general, this rule applies to an interpreter, or a Deaf individual that will be giving a presentation to a large crowd.  As you … Continue reading →
Wed, May 15 2013

Deaf Culture Quiz #8
ASL Deafined Blog How do you reference a person who is not in the same room while you are signing? (Point to a specific location in front of you)? If the person that you are referring to is not in the room, you … Continue reading →
Wed, May 15 2013

Deaf Culture Quiz #7
ASL Deafined Blog The signs for male “gender” are: The “masculine” area of the face is near the forehead.  There are mixed theories on the reason for this, some saying that it is because men tend to be taller than women, and others … Continue reading →
Tue, Apr 23 2013