Fall in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “fall” in BSL refers to the action of falling down, often used in contexts like describing someone tripping or losing balance. This sign can be used in storytelling or conversations about accidents and is common in both casual and more serious discussions within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Fall”

1. Start with both hands open in front of you, palms facing down.
2. With your dominant hand, make a flat handshape (like a “B” hand) and place it slightly higher than your non-dominant hand.
3. Move your dominant hand downwards in a smooth motion, as if it’s falling. Your non-dominant hand should remain in place.
4. As your dominant hand falls, tilt your head slightly downwards and furrow your brow to convey the action of falling.
5. End the motion with your dominant hand near your non-dominant hand, resting close to your body.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in BSL to convey the meaning behind the sign.
• Using an upward motion instead of downward, which can confuse the sign for “rise” with “fall.”
• Not maintaining proper hand position, leading to unclear signing that can make it harder for others to understand.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, “fall” is performed by using a downward motion with a flat hand, while in ASL, the sign for “fall” might involve a different handshape and movement. The facial expressions and context in BSL are also critical, reflecting the sign’s meaning more dynamically than in ASL.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You could say, “I saw a person fall,” by signing “I” + “see” + “person” + “fall.” Ensure you use the correct facial expressions to emphasize the action.

Are there regional variations for the sign “fall”?

Generally, the sign for “fall” remains consistent across the UK. However, some areas may have slight variations in hand movement or facial expressions.

What signs are similar to “fall”?

Signs that convey movement or actions, such as “trip” or “slip,” can be similar. Each sign has its specific movements, so practice is essential.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Focus on practicing the motion in front of a mirror, and pay attention to your facial expressions, as they add meaning to your sign.

Can “fall” be used in different contexts?

Yes, “fall” can describe physical falling, as well as metaphorical uses like falling in love or falling behind in studies, depending on the context provided.

Should I incorporate space in my signing?

Yes, using space is essential in BSL. You can indicate different subjects or objects by placing them in specific areas around you, enhancing clarity in your communication.