Quarter To in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “quarter to” is used in the UK Deaf community to indicate time, specifically when it is 15 minutes before the hour. It is commonly used in everyday conversations regarding schedules, appointments, and social gatherings.

How to Sign “Quarter To”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” shape, palm facing down.
2. Position your hand in front of you, at about chest height.
3. Slowly move your hand to the left, while slightly tilting it to reflect the concept of “quarter.”
4. As you make this movement, raise your eyebrows to indicate the question or statement about the time.
5. Finish the sign by bringing your hand back to a neutral position while maintaining eye contact with your audience.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may confuse the sign for “quarter to” with “quarter past.” Ensure the movement and hand orientation are distinct.
• Forgetting to use appropriate facial expressions can lead to misunderstandings; remember to raise your eyebrows when indicating a question about time.
• Not using space effectively can cause confusion. Make sure to sign in a clear area in front of you for better visibility.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, “quarter to” utilizes a flat handshape and specific movement to convey time, whereas in ASL, the sign may differ significantly both in handshape and the overall structure of the sign. This highlights the unique grammatical features of each sign language.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.
• 15 – The sign for the number fifteen.
• 16 – The sign for the number sixteen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “quarter to” in a BSL sentence?

You can say, “It’s quarter to three” by combining the sign for “quarter to” with the sign for “three” to indicate the time clearly.

Are there regional variations for this sign across the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional dialects may incorporate slight variations in hand movement or facial expression. Observing local signers can help you adapt.

What similar signs should I learn?

Consider learning “quarter past,” “half past,” and the numbers related to time, such as “one,” “two,” and “three” for richer communication.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movements are correct. Joining a BSL class can also provide valuable feedback.

Can I use this sign in a question?

Yes, use the same sign but remember to raise your eyebrows to indicate that you are asking about the time.

Is facial expression important in this sign?

Absolutely! Non-manual features like facial expressions are crucial in BSL for conveying meaning and context.