How Hard Is It to Learn BSL in British Sign Language (BSL)
The sign “how hard is it to learn BSL” is often used in conversations about the challenges and experiences of learning British Sign Language. It’s a common question among both hearing individuals interested in learning BSL and members of the Deaf community discussing the learning process. This sign reflects curiosity and a desire to understand the learning journey.
How to Sign “How Hard Is It To Learn Bsl” in BSL

- Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a high five) in front of your chest.
- Move your hand forward slightly while raising your eyebrows to show the question.
- Next, use your non-dominant hand to indicate ‘hard’ by forming a fist and placing it slightly above the flat hand.
- Bring the fist down towards the flat hand, indicating difficulty.
- For clarity, you can add facial expressions showing contemplation or concern, reinforcing the question about difficulty.
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are important for conveying the question’s intent.
- Not maintaining the correct handshape throughout the sign.
- Impeding the flow by moving hands too quickly or without clear intention.
BSL vs ASL
In BSL, the sign for “how hard is it to learn” uses specific handshapes and movements that differ from American Sign Language (ASL). For example, ASL may incorporate different signs and facial expressions due to variations in grammar and structure, highlighting the unique aspects of each sign language.
Related Signs
- LANGUAGE – Sign for different languages and their importance.
- LEARN – The action of acquiring knowledge or skills.
- EASY – The opposite of hard, often used in comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this sign be used in a sentence?
Yes, it can be used to ask someone about their experience learning BSL, such as “How hard is it to learn BSL for you?”
Are there regional variations for this sign across the UK?
While the sign itself remains largely the same, some facial expressions or emphasis may vary slightly depending on regional dialects within the Deaf community.
What are similar signs to this one?
Similar signs include “LEARN” and “EASY,” which can be used in discussions about language learning.
Do you have tips for learning BSL more effectively?
Practice regularly with Deaf individuals, attend BSL classes, and immerse yourself in the Deaf community to enhance your learning experience.
How does BSL grammar affect this sign?
The topic-comment structure in BSL allows for flexibility, making it easier to frame questions about learning processes.
What facial expressions should I use?
Using raised eyebrows while signing the question indicates that you are asking something, which is crucial in BSL.
Practice ASL Signs
Use your camera to practice signs and get real-time AI feedback on your technique.
Free · No signup required
