Background Person in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “background person” in British Sign Language (BSL) is used to refer to someone who is present in a scene or situation but not the main focus. This sign is commonly used in storytelling, discussions, or when describing a group of people. It helps clarify the context of who is involved in a particular event or narrative.

How to Sign “Background Person”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand at about shoulder height, slightly in front of your body.
3. Move your hand slightly to the side and then back to the original position, indicating the idea of ‘background’.
4. While signing, maintain a neutral facial expression; this helps convey that the person is not the main focus.
5. Optionally, you can also use your non-dominant hand to show a specific location in space where the background person is situated.

Common Mistakes

• Using the wrong hand shape; ensure that it is a flat ‘B’ shape, as other shapes can change the meaning.
• Not using space effectively; remember to position the sign appropriately in relation to other signs in your sentence.
• Neglecting facial expressions; maintaining a neutral expression is important to convey the meaning of ‘background’.

BSL vs ASL

The sign for “background person” in BSL differs from American Sign Language (ASL) in both hand shape and movement. While BSL uses a flat ‘B’ handshape, ASL may utilize different handshapes and movements to convey similar meanings, reflecting the unique grammatical structures of each language.

Related Signs

• People – Refers to a group or individuals in general.
• Group – Indicates a collection of individuals together.
• Focus – Used to specify the main subject in a conversation.
• Scene – Refers to the overall setting or context of a story.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “background person” in a BSL sentence?

You can use it in a sentence by first establishing the scene, then signing “background person” to indicate who is present but not the main subject.

Are there regional variations for this sign across the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in movement or emphasis. It’s helpful to learn from local signers.

What are similar signs to “background person”?

Related signs include “people” and “focus,” which help to clarify context in different scenarios.

Any tips for learning this sign?

Practice using the sign within sentences and engage with native BSL users to improve your fluency and understanding of context.

Can I use this sign when describing a photo?

Yes, it’s perfect for describing the context of a photo, especially in storytelling or visual descriptions.

What should I focus on when signing “background person”?

Pay attention to your handshape, space, and facial expressions to ensure clarity in your communication.