Earmark in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “earmark” in BSL refers to the act of designating something for a specific purpose or identifying it for future reference. This term is often used in contexts such as budgeting, planning, or making decisions within the Deaf community. It’s a useful sign when discussing finances or allocating resources.

How to Sign “Earmark”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” hand) with your palm facing down.
2. Position your hand slightly in front of your body at about chest height.
3. Move your hand forward a short distance while maintaining the flat handshape.
4. Simultaneously, raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward to show focus or intent, which is an important non-manual feature in BSL.
5. Finish the movement by bringing your hand back towards your body while keeping the same handshape.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use the non-manual features, such as facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the meaning.
• Using a closed fist instead of a flat handshape can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not maintaining the correct space in front of the body can lead to confusion about the sign’s intent.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “earmark” uses a flat handshape and incorporates facial expressions to convey emphasis. In contrast, ASL might use a different handshape and movement to communicate the same concept, reflecting the unique grammatical structure and cultural nuances of each language.

Related Signs

• Budget – The sign for allocating financial resources.
• Plan – Used when discussing future arrangements.
• Allocate – Sign for distributing resources or responsibilities.
• Identify – To specify or recognize something in a discussion.
• Save – Used in the context of saving money or resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use it in a sentence like “I earmark money for my holiday,” signed as “I money earmark holiday.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

This sign is fairly consistent across the UK, but some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement.

What are some similar signs to “earmark”?

Related signs include “budget,” “allocate,” and “plan,” which involve similar concepts of designating or organizing resources.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are correct. Watching videos of native signers can also be helpful.

Is this sign commonly used in Deaf schools?

Yes, discussions around budgeting and planning often use this sign, making it relevant in educational settings.

Can I use “earmark” in formal settings?

Absolutely! It is appropriate to use in both informal conversations and formal discussions related to finance or planning.