My Name Is in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “my name is in BSL” is commonly used to introduce oneself in the UK Deaf community. It serves as a friendly way to share your name, especially in social situations or when meeting new people. This sign structure emphasizes the important topic-comment format in BSL.

How to Sign “My Name Is” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” handshape (palm facing forward) to represent “my.” Position it at your chest.
2. Next, move your hand slightly away from your body to indicate possession.
3. Now, form your dominant hand into a “name” sign by using a flat “B” handshape, tapping your chin once with your fingertips.
4. For “is,” you don’t need to sign anything specific; it’s understood in the structure.
5. Finally, to sign “in BSL,” use both hands in a “B” handshape, moving them outward from your body while keeping your palms facing each other.
6. Throughout the sign, maintain a friendly facial expression, as this adds to the warmth of the introduction.

Common Mistakes

• Omitting the non-manual features, which are crucial for conveying friendliness and engagement.
• Forgetting to use the topic-comment structure, leading to misunderstandings.
• Using the wrong handshape or positioning, which can confuse the meaning of the sign.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “my name is” is distinct from ASL. While BSL uses a specific topic-comment structure and a flat “B” handshape, ASL incorporates a different handshape and syntax. Understanding these differences helps bridge communication between the two language communities.

Related Signs

• (Bsl) – A sign used to refer to British Sign Language itself.
• 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a full sentence?

You can introduce yourself by saying, “My name is John,” using the sign for “my name is” followed by your name sign.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent, some areas may have slight variations in movement or facial expressions. It’s always good to observe local signers.

What are some similar signs to this one?

Similar signs include introductions like “nice to meet you” or “where are you from?” which follow a similar structure.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to get your hand shapes and facial expressions right. Watching fluent signers can also help.

Can I use this sign when meeting multiple people?

Yes, you can use the same sign when introducing yourself to groups. Just make sure to maintain eye contact with everyone.

What if I have a long name?

If your name is long, you can abbreviate it or use a nickname that you feel comfortable with when signing.