Morning in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “morning” in British Sign Language (BSL) represents the early part of the day. It is commonly used in greetings and conversations among the UK Deaf community when discussing daily routines or planning activities for the day ahead.

How to Sign “Morning”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ handshape (fingers extended and together, palm facing down).
2. Position your hand at the side of your face, near your cheek.
3. Move your hand upward and slightly forward in a gentle arc, as if you are depicting the sun rising.
4. As you perform the movement, use a bright facial expression to convey the positivity associated with morning.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use a facial expression, which can make the sign less expressive.
• Incorrectly positioning the hand too far from the face, which can change the meaning.
• Using an incorrect handshape; ensure your hand is in the flat ‘B’ shape.

BSL vs ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign for “morning” involves a different handshape and movement. While BSL uses a flat ‘B’ shape moving upward from the face, ASL typically uses a different, more horizontal motion. This highlights the unique grammar and structure of BSL compared to 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

Can I use “morning” in a BSL sentence?

Yes! You can use it in sentences like “Good morning!” or “I wake up in the morning.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

The sign is generally consistent across the UK, but some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expressions.

What are similar signs to “morning”?

Related signs include “afternoon” and “evening,” which depict different times of day.

Any tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are correct.

How can I use this sign in conversation?

You can use “morning” as a greeting or when discussing plans for the day with others.

Is there a sign for “good morning”?

Yes, you can combine the sign for “good” with “morning” to express “good morning.”