1. "Shh" (formal):
* This is the most common way to sign "be quiet" in ASL.
* Make a "shh" sound with your lips and place your index finger horizontally across your lips.
* Hold the sign for a moment to emphasize the request.
2. "Quiet" (informal):
* Sign "quiet" by bringing your index finger to your lips and then moving it outward in a horizontal arc.
* This sign can be used in casual settings or to express a more general request for silence.
3. "Don't talk" (stronger emphasis):
* Sign "don't" by waving your index finger back and forth in front of your face.
* Then sign "talk" by bringing your hand to your chin and moving it down and out.
4. "Stop talking" (stronger emphasis):
* Sign "stop" by bringing your dominant hand up in front of your face and then moving it down in a chopping motion.
* Then sign "talk" as described above.
The best way to learn how to sign "be quiet" is to watch videos and practice with a native ASL signer. There are many resources available online, including the ASL University website.
It's important to note that sign language varies by region and culture, so the signs used for "be quiet" might be slightly different in other sign languages.