American Sign Language: "before"
There are several ways to sign this concept depending on the meaning you want to convey.
BEFORE-(past)
This version means:
"In the past."
"Previous to now"
"Last" as in "last-night"
"Ever" as in "Have you ever...?"
"Once upon a time..."
Animation: BEFORE or PAST (previous, "last" as in "last Monday" which means "previous Monday."
BEFORE-(prior to)
This version is means "prior to," "happened earlier than," and "previous to an event."
NOTE: The left hand isn't moving. The right hand is moving back toward the body. Both hands are slightly bent at the knuckles.
BEFORE-(prior to)
Here is another version. This version means:
"Prior to"
"Happened earlier than"
"Previous to an event"NOTE: The left hand isn't moving. The right hand is moving back toward the body.
PAST / BEFORE / "back when" / "used to be" / "a while back"
PAST: "way back" / distant past / a long, long time ago /
Also see: YESTERDAY
BEFORE, prior to, preceding:
BEFORE-[past]:
BEFORE-[previous-version]:
Notes:
Where this sign is taught:
Taught in Lesson 16.Reviewed in lessons: 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 28, 33, 40, 41, 44, 45
Practice sentences using this sign:
POLICE they-HELP-you BEFORE, HOW? (How have you been helped by a police officer?)BEFORE-[prior-to] CLASS, YOU WHERE? (Where were you before class?)
BOAT, BEFORE YOU? (Have you been on a boat before?)
YOUR KEYS, YOU LOSE BEFORE?
AIRPLANE BEFORE YOU? (Have you ever been on an airplane before?)
HORSE, YOU RIDE-ON BEFORE? (Have you ever ridden a horse before?)
YOUR ASL BOOK, YOU LOSE BEFORE YOU? (Have you ever lost your ASL book?)
YOU TRAIN TRAVEL BEFORE YOU?
BEFORE-[prior-to] TEST YOU FEEL NERVOUS YOU? (Do you get nervous before a test?)
BUZZ-CUT BEFORE YOU? (Have you ever had a buzz-cut hair-style?)
... and 15 more practice sentences use this sign.