Today in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “today” in BSL is commonly used to refer to the current day in conversations within the Deaf community. It can help set the context for discussions or inquiries about plans, events, or activities happening today.

How to Sign “Today” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like the letter ‘B’) with fingers extended and together.
2. Position your hand in front of your body, at about chest height.
3. Move your hand slightly forward from your body and then back towards you in a small arc.
4. As you perform the movement, use a neutral facial expression or a slight smile to convey the meaning of today.
5. Remember to maintain eye contact with your conversation partner to enhance clarity and engagement.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is to use a flat handshape but without the correct movement, which can confuse the meaning. Another error is failing to use appropriate facial expressions, which are crucial in BSL for conveying context. Lastly, some learners may forget to maintain proper space when signing, leading to unclear communication.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “today” involves a specific movement and handshape, whereas in ASL, the sign is quite different, often using a different handshape and location. This illustrates the distinct grammar and visual language structures present in each signing system.

Related Signs

• Tomorrow – Refers to the day after today.
• Yesterday – Refers to the day before today.
• Now – Indicates the current moment.
• Week – Refers to the seven-day period.
• Month – Refers to the calendar month.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “today” in a BSL sentence?

You can use “today” at the beginning of a sentence to set the topic, such as “Today I will go shopping.” This follows the topic-comment structure typical in BSL.

Are there regional variations in signing “today”?

The sign for “today” is generally consistent across the UK, but some regions may have slight variations in handshape or facial expression.

What similar signs should I know?

Familiarising yourself with signs like yesterday and tomorrow can be helpful for discussing time-related topics.

Any tips for remembering the sign?

Practising in front of a mirror can help you refine your handshape and movement while observing your facial expressions. Consider using the sign in daily conversations to reinforce learning.

Can I use “today” in different contexts?

Yes! You can adapt the sign for various contexts, such as discussing events happening today or personal plans.

How does “today” fit into BSL grammar?

In BSL, “today” serves as the topic, which you would typically place at the start of your sentence, followed by the comment about what you’re discussing.