Underline in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “underline” in British Sign Language (BSL) is often used in educational contexts, especially when discussing written work or notes. It helps to convey the action of emphasizing or highlighting important information, making it a useful sign for students and teachers alike. This sign reflects the importance of clarity in communication within the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Underline” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand just above the area you want to represent as being underlined.
3. Move your hand horizontally from left to right, as if drawing a line under a text.
4. Keep your facial expression neutral or slightly focused to indicate the action of underlining.

Common Mistakes

• Using a curved handshape instead of a flat handshape, which can confuse the sign.
• Moving the hand too quickly, making it difficult to understand the action.
• Neglecting facial expressions, which can impact the clarity of the sign’s intent.

BSL vs ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign for “underline” differs significantly from BSL. ASL uses a different handshape and movement pattern, often incorporating more body movement. This showcases how signs can vary greatly between different sign languages, even for similar concepts.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use “underline” in sentences like “I want to underline this point,” following the topic-comment structure: “THIS POINT, UNDERLINE.”

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

Mainly, the sign remains consistent across the UK, but some regional dialects may have slight variations in movement.

What are some similar signs to “underline”?

Signs like “highlight,” “emphasize,” and “mark” can convey related concepts in a similar context.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice with a partner and focus on clear hand shapes and movements. Watching videos of fluent signers can also help.

Is “underline” commonly used in everyday conversation?

It’s mainly used in educational or professional contexts rather than casual conversation.

How important is facial expression when signing?

Facial expressions are crucial in BSL as they provide context and emotion, enhancing the clarity of your signs.