Numbers 1-20 in British Sign Language (BSL)

British Sign Language (BSL) numbers 1-20 are essential for everyday communication within the Deaf community in the UK. These signs are used in various contexts, such as counting, telling time, and discussing dates. Mastering these numbers helps enhance clarity and understanding in conversations.

How to Sign “Numbers 1-20” in BSL

1. 1: Extend your index finger upward, palm facing forward. Keep your other fingers curled in.
2. 2: Extend your index and middle fingers, forming a ‘V’ shape, palm facing forward.
3. 3: Extend your index, middle, and ring fingers, keeping your palm facing forward.
4. 4: Extend your index, middle, ring, and little fingers, palm facing forward.
5. 5: Open your hand with all fingers spread apart, palm facing forward.
6. 6: Make a fist with your thumb on the side, then extend your pinky finger (5 + 1).
7. 7: Make a fist, extend your thumb and index finger (5 + 2).
8. 8: Make a fist, extend your thumb, index, and middle fingers (5 + 3).
9. 9: Make a fist, extend your thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers (5 + 4).
10. 10: Make a fist with your thumb on the side, then tap your thumb with your index finger (5 + 5).
11. 11: Extend your index finger upward, then tap it with your thumb (10 + 1).
12. 12: Extend your index and middle fingers, tapping them with your thumb (10 + 2).
13. 13: Extend your fingers for 3, tapping with your thumb (10 + 3).
14. 14: Extend your fingers for 4, tapping with your thumb (10 + 4).
15. 15: Extend your fingers for 5, tapping with your thumb (10 + 5).
16. 16: Make a fist, extend your pinky (5 + 6).
17. 17: Make a fist, extend your thumb and index finger (5 + 7).
18. 18: Make a fist, extend your thumb, index, and middle fingers (5 + 8).
19. 19: Make a fist, extend your thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers (5 + 9).
20. 20: Hold both hands in a ‘C’ shape, palms facing each other and move them slightly apart.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features, such as facial expressions, which can change the meaning.
• Confusing the hand shapes, especially for numbers above 10.
• Neglecting to maintain clear hand positioning and movement, leading to misunderstandings.

BSL vs ASL

The signs for numbers 1-20 differ significantly between BSL and American Sign Language (ASL). For example, while BSL uses specific hand shapes and orientations, ASL may incorporate different movements and signs for the same numbers. The approach to fingerspelling also varies, with BSL having distinct letter signs compared to ASL.

Related Signs

• 1: The sign for one in BSL.
• 10: The sign for ten in BSL.
• 100: The sign for one hundred in BSL.
• 11: The sign for eleven in BSL.
• 12: The sign for twelve in BSL.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use numbers in BSL sentences?

Numbers can serve as topics in sentences. For example, “THREE CATS” is signed by signing “3” followed by “CATS”.

Are there regional variations in BSL number signs?

Yes, some signs may vary slightly across regions, though the core numbers remain the same.

What are similar signs to numbers in BSL?

Signs for days of the week and months often incorporate numbers, such as “MONDAY” being signed with the number 1.

What are some tips for learning BSL numbers?

Practice regularly, watch video demonstrations, and engage with the Deaf community to improve your skills.

How do I sign larger numbers in BSL?

Larger numbers are typically formed by combining smaller numbers, using the same principles of hand shape and movement.

Can I fingerspell numbers in BSL?

While numbers are usually signed, fingerspelling can be used for clarity, especially in formal contexts.