Pack in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “pack in” in BSL refers to the action of stopping or giving up on something, often used when discussing habits or activities that someone decides to discontinue. It’s a common expression in conversations within the UK Deaf community, particularly when addressing personal choices or changes in lifestyle.

How to Sign “Pack” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” hand) and hold it in front of your chest.
2. Move your hand away from your body, slightly downwards, as if you’re pushing something away.
3. As you do this, change your facial expression to show a sense of finality or determination, perhaps slightly nodding your head.
4. For emphasis, you can also shift your non-dominant hand into a fist, which represents the idea of “holding back” or “stopping.”

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to include facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the meaning in BSL.
• Not using the correct handshape; some learners may use a flat hand instead of the intended “B” handshape.
• Misplacing the movement; the sign should be directed away from the body, not towards it.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, “pack in” focuses on the action of stopping and involves specific hand movements and non-manual features. In ASL, the equivalent sign might convey a similar meaning but may have a different handshape and movement pattern, reflecting the unique grammar and structure of ASL.

Related Signs

• Stop – A sign used to indicate halting an action.
• Change – To signify a shift from one state to another.
• Give Up – To express the decision to stop trying.
• Quit – Similar to “pack in,” often used in the context of leaving a job or activity.
• Leave – To indicate departing from a place or situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can say, “I want to pack in smoking,” by signing “I” + “smoking” + “pack in,” ensuring to use the correct facial expressions for clarity.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While “pack in” is generally understood across the UK, some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement. It’s best to observe local signing practices.

What other signs are similar to “pack in”?

Signs like “give up” and “quit” convey similar meanings, focusing on the cessation of an activity or habit.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are accurate, and watch fluent signers to gain a better understanding of context.

Can “pack in” be used in a positive context?

Typically, “pack in” has a negative connotation, but it can be used positively if you’re talking about stopping a harmful habit.

How does facial expression influence this sign?

Facial expressions are essential in BSL; they add context and emotion to the sign, indicating whether the action is a relief, regret, or determination.