Keyword in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “keyword in BSL” is used to refer to specific terms or concepts within British Sign Language. It’s commonly used in discussions about learning BSL, teaching, or when explaining particular signs to others in the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Keyword” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a ‘B’ handshape) held in front of you, palm facing down.
2. Move your hand slightly forward and then downwards, as if you’re placing the “keyword” onto a flat surface.
3. As you make this movement, raise your eyebrows and maintain a focused expression, indicating the importance of the keyword.
4. For the “in BSL” part, use your non-dominant hand to create a ‘B’ handshape and place it near your dominant hand, indicating that the keyword is within the context of BSL.
5. Finish with a nod to show affirmation that you are referring to the keyword in British Sign Language.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying meaning.
• Using a flat handshape instead of the correct ‘B’ handshape, leading to confusion.
• Not maintaining the topic-comment structure, which can lead to misunderstandings about what is being referred to.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “keyword in BSL” incorporates specific handshapes and movements unique to British culture and language. In contrast, ASL uses different signs and may not follow the same structure or emphasis, focusing instead on the concept of keywords in a more general context.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Indicates one dollar in discussions about money.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “keyword in BSL” in a sentence?

You can say: “MY SIGN ‘KEYWORD’ IN BSL.” This shows the structure clearly.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent, some areas may have slight variations in speed or emphasis.

Are there similar signs to “keyword in BSL”?

Yes, signs like “term” or “definition” may have similarities in structure.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror and focus on your facial expressions to enhance clarity.

Can I use “keyword in BSL” when teaching?

Absolutely! It’s a great way to introduce specific terms during lessons.

How does the topic-comment structure work with this sign?

Start with the topic (the keyword) followed by the comment (in BSL) to clarify your message.