Take Away in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “take away” in BSL is often used in contexts where something is removed or taken from a place. It’s commonly seen in everyday conversations, such as when discussing food orders or removing items from a table. Understanding this sign is useful for anyone wanting to navigate interactions more smoothly in the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Take Away” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand open and flat, palm facing up, in front of your chest.
2. With your non-dominant hand, make a fist and place it on top of the flat hand.
3. As you begin the sign, move your dominant hand away from your body, as if you are lifting the object off your flat hand.
4. Maintain a focused facial expression that conveys the action of ‘taking away’.
5. Finish the movement by bringing your dominant hand forward a bit, indicating the object’s removal.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features, which can make the sign less clear.
• Using a downward movement instead of a forward movement, which can change the meaning.
• Neglecting to establish the topic-comment structure, leading to confusion about what is being taken away.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “take away” involves a specific handshape and movement that is distinct from ASL. In ASL, the sign typically uses a different handshape and placement, reflecting the differences in grammar and structure between the two languages.

Related Signs

• Remove – Sign used to indicate taking something away or eliminating it.
• Give – This sign is about offering or handing over something to someone else.
• Pick Up – Used when you want to show the action of lifting something off a surface.
• Bring – This sign indicates the action of bringing something to a location.
• Put – Used for the action of placing something down in a specific location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “take away” in a BSL sentence?

You can use “take away” in a topic-comment structure, for example: “Food take away (sign)”.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have their own nuances in handshape or movement.

What are some similar signs to “take away”?

Signs like “remove” and “give” are related as they also involve actions of transferring or changing possession.

What tips can help me learn this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your movements and facial expressions. Watching videos can also reinforce your learning.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, “take away” can be used in both casual and formal contexts, as it is widely understood in the Deaf community.

Is there a sign for “take away” food specifically?

While “take away” can refer to food, you can specify by adding the sign for “food” before it for clarity.