Afternoon in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “afternoon” in British Sign Language (BSL) is used to refer to the time of day between noon and evening. It’s a common part of daily conversations in the UK Deaf community, helping to clarify plans or schedules. This sign is also important in social contexts, where timing can be crucial for meetings or gatherings.

How to Sign “Afternoon” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand at the side of your face, near your cheek.
3. Move your hand away from your cheek, forward and slightly downwards, while keeping the palm facing down.
4. Maintain a neutral facial expression, or add a slight smile to show friendliness.
5. Ensure your movement is smooth and deliberate, as this helps convey the meaning more clearly.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use the correct handshape, using a fist instead of a flat hand.
• Another common error is not incorporating the non-manual features, such as facial expressions, which are essential in BSL.
• Moving the hand too quickly can make the sign unclear, so it’s important to practice a steady movement.

BSL vs ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign for “afternoon” differs significantly from BSL. While BSL uses a flat handshape to convey the sign, ASL typically incorporates a different handshape and movement. This highlights the unique characteristics and structure of each sign language.

Related Signs

• Morning – Refers to the time from dawn until noon.
• Evening – Used to describe the time from late afternoon until night.
• Day – A general term for the period of light between sunrise and sunset.
• Time – The concept of time, useful in various contexts.
• Schedule – Refers to planning or organizing time for activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can “afternoon” be used in BSL sentences?

Yes, “afternoon” can be used in sentences like “I will see you in the afternoon,” where you can use the topic-comment structure to clarify the subject and action.

Are there regional variations of the sign “afternoon” in the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent across the UK, some regional variations may exist. It’s good to observe local signers for nuances.

What are some signs similar to “afternoon”?

Signs like “morning” and “evening” are closely related, as they also refer to specific times of the day.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and movement. Watching videos of fluent signers can also help reinforce proper technique.

Is “afternoon” signed differently in different contexts?

The sign remains the same, but facial expressions can change based on the context, adding emphasis or friendliness.

How can I incorporate “afternoon” into my daily conversations?

You can use “afternoon” when discussing plans, schedules, or simply talking about your day to help clarify timing.