Vault in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “vault” in BSL refers to the action of jumping over an object, often seen in gymnastics or parkour contexts. It is commonly used in discussions about sports, physical activities, or routines that involve leaping over hurdles or similar obstacles within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Vault”

1. Start with both hands in a flat position, palms facing down, and placed shoulder-width apart in front of you.
2. Raise your dominant hand slightly, while your non-dominant hand remains in place.
3. Move your dominant hand upwards and to the side in a sweeping motion, mimicking the action of vaulting over an object.
4. As you perform this movement, lean your body slightly forward, conveying the action of jumping over.
5. Maintain a facial expression that reflects the effort or excitement of vaulting, which adds to the meaning of the sign.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use the appropriate facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the action’s intensity.
• Not using enough space when signing, which can lead to a misunderstanding of the action being described.
• Failing to maintain the correct hand shape, leading to confusion with similar signs.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “vault” focuses on the physical action and uses body movement, while in ASL, it may involve different hand shapes and a more static representation. The use of space in BSL is more pronounced, allowing for a clearer depiction of the action’s dynamic nature.

Related Signs

• Jump – Represents the action of leaping off the ground.
• Run – Indicates moving quickly on foot.
• Gymnastics – Refers to the sport that includes vaulting as an event.
• Leap – Similar to jumping, but often implies a longer distance.
• Parkour – A movement discipline that includes vaulting over obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use “vault” in a sentence by establishing the topic first. For example, “I vault over the barrier” would be signed by indicating ‘I’ first, then signing ‘vault’ while maintaining the topic-comment structure.

Are there regional variations for “vault” in BSL?

While “vault” is generally consistent, some regional variations may exist in the execution of the sign or in associated facial expressions. It’s always beneficial to learn from local Deaf community members.

What signs are similar to “vault”?

Signs like “jump” and “leap” are similar and convey related actions. However, “vault” is more specific to the context of overcoming an obstacle.

Can I learn BSL online?

Yes! There are many resources available online, including video tutorials and BSL courses that can help you learn at your own pace.

What tips do you have for mastering this sign?

Practice the movement in front of a mirror to ensure you are using the correct hand shapes and facial expressions. Also, watching native signers can provide valuable insights.

When should I use the sign “vault”?

This sign can be used in contexts related to sports or physical activities, especially when discussing gymnastics or parkour.