Flower in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “flower” in BSL represents the beautiful and vibrant nature of flowers, often used in contexts such as gardening, nature discussions, or expressing appreciation for flowers. It is commonly used in social conversations or when discussing topics related to nature and aesthetics within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Flower” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (fingers extended and together, palm facing down).
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, about waist height.
3. Make a small upward movement, lifting your hand slightly while rotating your wrist so the palm faces up at the end of the movement.
4. As you sign, soften your facial expression to reflect the beauty and gentleness of a flower, perhaps smiling slightly.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use the correct handshape, using a fist instead of a flat ‘B’ shape.
• Not incorporating the upward movement can make the sign appear flat and less expressive.
• Overlooking facial expressions, which are important for conveying the sign’s meaning and emotion.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “flower” focuses on the handshape and the upward movement, while in ASL, a different handshape and motion are used. BSL also tends to incorporate more facial expressions and non-manual features, reflecting its unique grammar and structure compared to ASL.

Related Signs

• Garden – Sign for a cultivated area for plants.
• Plant – Represents any kind of plant, including flowers.
• Nature – Sign representing the natural world.
• Green – Sign for the colour associated with many plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use “flower” as the topic in a sentence. For example, “FLOWER I LIKE” (I like flowers).

Are there regional variations for the sign “flower”?

While the sign is generally consistent across the UK, some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression. It’s best to observe local signers.

What signs are similar to “flower”?

Signs like “plant” and “garden” are related as they also pertain to nature and horticulture.

Any tips for learning “flower”?

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

Can “flower” be used in various contexts?

Yes, “flower” can be used in many contexts, such as discussing gardening, giving flowers as gifts, or talking about nature.

What if I forget the sign for “flower”?

If you forget, you can describe a flower or use fingerspelling as a last resort, but try to practice regularly to reinforce your memory.