Different Than American in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “is British Sign Language different than American” is often used in discussions about the distinctions between BSL and ASL. This phrase is useful when exploring the unique features of BSL in contrast to American Sign Language, particularly in educational settings or casual conversations within the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Different Than American” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (palm down) at shoulder height.
2. Move your hand slightly forward while keeping the palm facing down, indicating the topic: “British Sign Language“.
3. Transition to your non-dominant hand by forming a similar ‘B’ shape and placing it in front of your dominant hand.
4. Now, with both hands, make a gentle outward motion, indicating the concept of “different”.
5. For the sign “American,” use your dominant hand to make the ‘A’ handshape, then move it away from your body to show the comparison.
6. Throughout the sign, maintain a neutral facial expression, but you can raise your eyebrows slightly when indicating “different” to emphasize the contrast.

Common Mistakes

• Not using the correct hand shapes for “British” and “American,” leading to confusion.
• Forgetting to include non-manual features like facial expressions that enhance understanding.
• Neglecting the topic-comment structure, which can make the sentence unclear.

BSL vs ASL

The sign for “is British Sign Language different than American” varies significantly between BSL and ASL. In ASL, the sign structure and handshapes differ, and the grammar may not follow the same topic-comment format as in BSL. Understanding these differences is essential for effective communication within each community.

Related Signs

• (Bsl) – Referring to British Sign Language.
• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – The sign for one dollar.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a BSL sentence?

You can use this sign to ask or state comparisons, such as “Is BSL different than ASL?” Make sure to follow the topic-comment structure for clarity.

Are there regional variations in how this sign is performed?

While the core sign remains consistent, some regional variations may exist in the specific handshapes or facial expressions used across different parts of the UK.

What are some signs similar to this one?

Similar signs include those for “different,” “language,” and “American.” These can help expand your vocabulary for discussing languages.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your hand shapes and facial expressions, and watch videos of Deaf signers to see the sign in context.

Is there a formal introduction to BSL that covers these differences?

Yes, there are courses and resources available that focus on BSL and its distinctions from ASL, which can provide a deeper understanding.

Can I practice this sign with others?

Absolutely! Practicing with other BSL users or in a class setting will help reinforce your skills and understanding of the sign.