BSL Numbers 1-20 in British Sign Language (BSL)

The BSL numbers 1-20 are fundamental for everyday communication within the UK Deaf community. They are often used during conversations about counting, age, and time, and are essential for understanding numerical information. Mastering these signs will enhance your ability to engage and interact fluently in various situations.

How to Sign “Bsl Numbers 1-20″ in BSL

1. 1: Start with your dominant hand in a fist, palm facing out. Hold it in front of you at shoulder height.
2. 2: Extend your index finger from the fist, maintaining the same palm orientation.
3. 3: Use your middle finger to join the index finger while keeping the others tucked in. Your palm still faces out.
4. 4: Extend your ring finger along with the index and middle fingers. Keep your palm facing out.
5. 5: Open your hand fully with fingers spread apart, palm facing out.
6. 6: Close your fingers into a fist and then extend your pinky finger while keeping the other fingers in a fist.
7. 7: Extend your thumb with the fingers still in a fist, palm facing out.
8. 8: Extend your thumb and pinky finger while keeping the other fingers folded in the fist.
9. 9: Extend your index finger and thumb while bending the other fingers down, palm facing out.
10. 10: Hold your dominant hand in a fist, palm facing out, and bring it down slightly from shoulder height.
11. 11: Extend your index finger, palm facing out, and move it slightly back and forth.
12. 12: Extend your index and middle fingers, palm facing out, and bring them together.
13. 13: Extend your index finger and thumb, palm facing out, and then add your ring finger while bending your pinky.
14. 14: Extend your index finger, middle finger, and ring finger while keeping your pinky folded.
15. 15: Open your hand with fingers spread apart, palm facing out, and then bring it down.
16. 16: Similar to 15, but add your thumb on the side of your palm.
17. 17: Extend your pinky and thumb with other fingers folded, palm facing out.
18. 18: Extend your index finger and pinky while folding the rest of the fingers.
19. 19: Extend your thumb and index finger and bring them close together.
20. 20: Open your hand and move it slightly in a circular motion before bringing it back.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting the correct palm orientation, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Overextending fingers, leading to unclear signs.
• Not using facial expressions to indicate the context or emotion related to the number.

BSL vs ASL

BSL numbers 1-20 differ significantly from ASL. In BSL, the signs often involve more hand shapes and positions, while ASL uses distinct handshapes that can involve both hands for certain numbers. Additionally, the signing space and the use of facial expressions vary between the two languages.

Related Signs

• 1
• 10
• 100
• (Bsl)
• 12

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use numbers in BSL sentences?

Yes, you can incorporate numbers into BSL sentences. Use the topic-comment structure for clarity, placing the number at the beginning of the sentence.

Are there regional variations in signing numbers?

Yes, some regions in the UK may have slight variations in how numbers are signed, though the core signs remain largely consistent.

What are some similar signs to numbers?

Signs for counting, age, and time are closely related and often use similar hand shapes and movements.

What tips can help me learn BSL numbers effectively?

Practice regularly, use visual aids, and engage with the Deaf community for real-life practice.

How important are facial expressions when signing numbers?

Facial expressions add context and emotion to your signs, making your communication clearer and more engaging.

Can I learn BSL numbers through online resources?

Absolutely! Many online platforms offer tutorials and video demonstrations to help you learn BSL numbers.