Large in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “large” in BSL is used to express size or scale in various contexts, such as describing objects, animals, or even emotions. It is commonly used in everyday conversations within the UK Deaf community, particularly when comparing sizes or emphasizing the magnitude of something.

How to Sign “Large” in BSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘B’ handshape, palms facing each other.
2. Position your hands at shoulder height, slightly apart.
3. Move your hands outward, away from your body, while maintaining the flat ‘B’ handshape.
4. As you do this, ensure your facial expression reflects the concept of “large” — you might raise your eyebrows and open your eyes slightly.
5. To finish, bring your hands back together into the starting position, if needed for emphasis in a sentence.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are essential in BSL for conveying meaning.
• Using a rounded handshape instead of the flat ‘B’ handshape.
• Not moving the hands out far enough, which may make the sign appear unclear or not convey the idea of “large.”

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “large” involves a flat ‘B’ handshape and a directionality that emphasizes size. In contrast, ASL uses a different handshape and movement; often, a ‘C’ handshape is utilized to represent size, which is visually distinct from the BSL sign.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – The sign representing one dollar.
• 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 “large” in a BSL sentence?

You can use “large” as the topic. For example, “LARGE elephant” can be signed by first signing “LARGE” and then the sign for “elephant”.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign for “large” is generally consistent across the UK, some regions may have slight variations in facial expressions or speed of signing.

What are some similar signs to “large”?

Similar signs include “big”, “huge”, and “massive”, each with unique nuances in meaning and use.

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 native signers can also help reinforce your learning.

Can “large” be used to describe feelings?

Yes, “large” can also be used metaphorically to describe feelings or emotions, such as a “large” amount of happiness or sadness.

What handshape is used in the sign for “large”?

The handshape for “large” in BSL is the flat ‘B’ handshape, with palms facing each other.