Raise in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “raise” in BSL is commonly used when discussing lifting something up or increasing levels, whether it’s a physical object, a voice, or even emotions. It’s prevalent in everyday conversations within the UK Deaf community, particularly when people are talking about raising hands, voices, or spirits.

How to Sign “Raise” in BSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat “B” shape (with your fingers extended and together).
2. Position your hands at waist height, palms facing inwards towards your body.
3. Slowly move your hands upwards while keeping them flat and together.
4. As you raise your hands, maintain a neutral facial expression or use a slight smile, depending on the context of the conversation.
5. Finish the sign when your hands are approximately shoulder height.

Common Mistakes

• Using a fist instead of a flat hand shape can lead to confusion, as it changes the meaning.
• Not raising the hands high enough can make the sign unclear or incorrect.
• Forgetting to incorporate facial expressions, which are crucial in BSL for conveying the right tone and context.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “raise” uses both hands in a flat shape, moving vertically. In contrast, ASL employs a different handshape and movement, often utilizing one hand. This shows a fundamental difference in how both sign languages express similar concepts.

Related Signs

• Lift – Signifying to elevate something physically.
• Increase – Indicating a rise in quantity or level.
• Voice – Relating to the act of speaking or raising one’s voice.
• Hand – Related to the use of hands in various signs.
• Higher – Indicating a greater elevation or level.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “raise” in a BSL sentence?

You can use “raise” in a sentence like “I raise my hand” by signing “I” (point to yourself), then “raise” (the sign described) and finish with “hand” (the sign for hand).

Are there regional variations in how “raise” is signed?

The sign for “raise” is generally consistent across the UK, but slight variations may occur in speed or facial expressions depending on the region.

What are some similar signs to “raise”?

Similar signs include “lift” and “increase,” which both convey the idea of elevating or augmenting something.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice the sign in front of a mirror, focus on hand shape and movement, and watch videos of fluent signers to understand non-manual features.

Can I use “raise” in different contexts?

Yes, “raise” can be used in various contexts, such as raising your voice, raising an issue, or lifting an object, depending on the accompanying signs and expressions.

How important are facial expressions with this sign?

Facial expressions are vital in BSL. They can change the meaning of the sign and convey emotions, so ensure your expression matches the context.