Underarm in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “underarm” is used to refer to the area beneath the arm and can be a part of discussions about body language, clothing, or personal grooming. It’s commonly used in conversations where specific body parts are discussed, particularly in informal settings within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Underarm” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (similar to the ASL ‘B’ handshape).
2. Position your hand under your non-dominant arm, close to your body, with your palm facing up.
3. Move your hand slightly upwards as if indicating the area under the arm, while keeping your fingers together.
4. Facial expression is important: raise your eyebrows slightly to indicate that you are making a point about the underarm area.
5. Use space effectively; you may want to orient your body slightly to show the direction of the movement.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain a clear handshape, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Not using facial expressions, which can make the sign less clear or expressive.
• Neglecting to show the area in space effectively, making it harder for others to understand the context.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “underarm” focuses on positioning the hand beneath the non-dominant arm, whereas in ASL, the sign might involve a different movement or handshape. This reflects the distinct grammar and spatial orientation used in each sign language.

Related Signs

• Armpit – Refers specifically to the area where the arm meets the body.
• Arm – The general sign for the arm.
• Body – Refers to the whole body, useful for broader discussions.
• Clothes – Often used when discussing attire related to the underarm area.
• Grooming – Related to personal care that may involve the underarm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How would you use “underarm” in a BSL sentence?

You might say “I need to shave my underarm” by signing “I” (point to yourself), “need” (using a claw handshape moving towards the chest), and then the sign for “underarm.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign is fairly consistent, some regions might have slight variations in handshape or movement. It’s always good to ask local signers for their variations.

What are some signs similar to “underarm”?

Signs like “armpit” or “body” can be used in similar contexts and they share some movement characteristics.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Watching videos of native signers can also be very helpful.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

While it is more common in informal settings, it can be used in formal contexts when discussing related topics, just be mindful of your audience.

How do non-manual features affect the meaning of this sign?

Non-manual features like facial expressions can add emphasis or clarify the context. For instance, raising your eyebrows can indicate a question or importance.