People in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “people” in British Sign Language (BSL) refers to individuals or a group of individuals. It’s commonly used in conversations about communities, gatherings, or discussing various groups within the Deaf community and beyond. This sign is fundamental for expressing social concepts and is frequently used in everyday interactions.

How to Sign “People” in BSL

1. Start with your hands in a ‘flat hand’ shape, where your fingers are together and your palms are facing down.
2. Position your hands slightly apart, at about chest height, with your fingers pointing forward.
3. Move your hands outward and slightly apart, maintaining the flat handshape, as you shift them away from each other.
4. For non-manual features, maintain a neutral facial expression or a slight smile to convey inclusivity.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the correct handshape; learners may use a loose fist instead of a flat hand.
• Not utilizing enough space when signing, which can make the sign unclear.
• Neglecting facial expressions, which are essential for conveying the right tone and meaning.

BSL vs ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign for “people” differs significantly from BSL. ASL uses a different handshape and movement, often incorporating a more symbolic gesture compared to the more straightforward representation in BSL.

Related Signs

• Community – Refers to a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common.
• Group – A sign for a collection of individuals gathered together.
• Person – Used to refer to an individual.
• Friends – Refers to people with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.
• Family – Signifying a group of related individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is “people” used in BSL sentences?

The sign for “people” can be used as the topic in a topic-comment structure, such as “People in our community are friendly” by starting with the sign for “people” followed by the comment.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

The sign for “people” is generally consistent across the UK; however, some regions may have slight variations in speed or emphasis.

What are some similar signs to “people”?

Related signs include “community,” “group,” and “friends,” which all convey social connections among individuals.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are correct, and try using the sign in conversations to become more comfortable.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, “people” is appropriate in both formal and informal settings, making it a versatile sign in your BSL vocabulary.

How does facial expression affect this sign?

Facial expressions add emotional context to the sign; a smile can make it more inviting, while a serious expression may convey a different tone.