Saying Happy New Year in Sign Languages Around the World

As we welcome the New Year, the global Deaf community celebrates with its own vibrant traditions and languages. Sign languages, deeply rooted in culture and identity, offer unique ways to convey well-wishes, including “Happy New Year.” In this post, we’ll explore how this phrase is expressed in different sign languages across the globe, highlighting the beauty of these visual languages and the cultural diversity they represent.

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How to Say “Happy New Year” in Various Sign Languages

Sign languages are not universal; each language reflects the culture and traditions of its region. Here’s how to express “Happy New Year” in six sign languages:

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1. American Sign Language (ASL)

• Description: To sign “Happy New Year” in ASL:

  • Happy: Use both hands to make upward circular motions on your chest.
  • New: Scoop your dominant hand into the palm of your non-dominant hand.
  • Year: Place one fist on top of the other, rotating them in a circular motion.

• Video Reference: Watch how to sign “Happy New Year” in ASL

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2. British Sign Language (BSL)

• Description: In BSL:

  • Happy: Both hands move up and down in front of your chest with a smiling expression.
  • New: Sweep one hand across your body as if wiping a slate clean.
  • Year: Place one fist on top of the other and rotate them around.

• Video Reference: Learn “Happy New Year” in BSL

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3. Japanese Sign Language (JSL)

• Description: In JSL:

  • Happy: Use both hands to make circular motions in front of your chest.
  • New: Mimic pulling a bowstring with your dominant hand.
  • Year: Form a circular motion using both hands.

• Video Reference: Signing “Happy New Year” in JSL

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4. Arabic Sign Language (ArSL)

• Description: In ArSL:

  • Happy: Move both hands in a circular motion in front of your chest.
  • New: Move one hand forward from your chin.
  • Year: Rotate one fist on top of the other in a circular motion.

• Video Reference: See “Happy New Year” in ArSL

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5. French Sign Language (LSF)

• Description: In LSF:

  • Happy: Use both hands to move upwards in front of your chest.
  • New: Move your dominant hand forward from your shoulder.
  • Year: Place one fist on top of the other and rotate them.

• Video Reference: Learn “Happy New Year” in LSF

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The Cultural Significance of Sign Languages

Sign languages are more than just tools for communication; they embody the cultural richness of their respective regions. For example:

• ASL relies heavily on facial expressions to convey tone and emotion.
• BSL incorporates regional variations across the UK.
• ArSL reflects the influence of Islamic culture and everyday life in the Arab world.

Learning even a simple phrase like “Happy New Year” is a gesture of respect and inclusion toward the Deaf community.

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Cicada Sign’s Perspective

At Cicada Sign, we celebrate the linguistic diversity of sign languages and advocate for their preservation. By sharing knowledge and resources, we aim to foster awareness and inclusivity for the global Deaf community. As the New Year begins, let’s unite in spreading joy and understanding across cultures.

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Learning how to say “Happy New Year” in different sign languages is a small yet meaningful way to connect with the Deaf community worldwide. It celebrates the beauty of linguistic diversity while fostering inclusivity and cultural appreciation. Let’s step into 2025 with open hearts and hands, embracing the richness of global Deaf cultures.