Friends in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “friends” in BSL is a warm and friendly gesture used to express camaraderie and connection within the Deaf community. It’s a commonly used sign in social settings, reflecting the importance of friendship and support among peers. This sign can often be seen in conversations about social gatherings, events, or simply when talking about one’s friends.

How to Sign “Friends” in BSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘B’ handshape (with fingers extended and together).
2. Position your hands in front of your chest, palms facing each other.
3. Move your hands outward and slightly apart while maintaining the ‘B’ handshape, as if you are drawing a circle around the space between your hands.
4. As you do this, use a friendly facial expression, smiling to convey warmth and connection.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are crucial in conveying emotions.
• Using the incorrect handshape, such as a fist instead of the flat ‘B’ handshape.
• Not maintaining the correct spatial relationship between the hands, which can confuse the meaning.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “friends” emphasizes the connection and warmth through the movement and facial expressions. In contrast, ASL uses a different handshape and movement, focusing more on the concept rather than the relational aspect. This highlights the cultural nuances embedded in each sign language.

Related Signs

• Friend – A close companion or someone you have a bond with.
• Family – Refers to one’s relatives and loved ones.
• Community – A group of people who share common interests or goals.
• Gathering – Coming together with friends or family for a social event.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “friends” in a BSL sentence?

You can say, “My friends are coming over,” by signing “MY FRIENDS” followed by the appropriate sign for “COME” and “OVER.”

Are there regional variations in signing “friends”?

While the sign is generally consistent across the UK, some regions might have slight variations in the movement or handshape.

What are some similar signs to “friends”?

Signs like “mate” or “buddy” are similar and can be used interchangeably in casual conversation.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are correct. Watching videos of Deaf signers can also be very helpful.

Can I use this sign in formal situations?

Yes, while “friends” is more casual, it can be used in various contexts, depending on the subject matter.

How does “friends” fit into BSL grammar?

In BSL, you can use a topic-comment structure, placing “FRIENDS” as the topic followed by additional comments about them or what they are doing.