Who in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “who” in British Sign Language (BSL) is a fundamental question word commonly used to ask about people’s identities. It is often used in conversations, storytelling, and when gathering information about someone. This sign is an essential part of everyday interactions within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Who” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a “C” shape (fingers curled and thumb extended).
2. Position your hand near your chin, with the palm facing inward.
3. As you move your hand slightly away from your face, raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to indicate that this is a question.
4. Hold the position for a moment to emphasise the question.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features such as facial expressions; raising eyebrows is crucial for indicating a question.
• Misplacing the hand shape; ensuring it remains in a “C” shape is important for clarity.
• Rushing the sign; taking time to incorporate the facial expression and movement helps convey the question effectively.

BSL vs ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign for “who” is different in both hand shape and movement. While BSL uses a “C” shape, ASL typically uses the index finger pointing upwards. This highlights the differences in grammar and structure between the two sign languages.

Related Signs

• What – Used to ask for information about something.
• Where – Used to inquire about a location.
• When – Used to ask about time.
• Why – Used to question the reason behind something.
• How – Used to ask about the method or manner of doing something.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

For example, to ask “Who is that?” you would sign “who” followed by a pointing gesture towards the person you are referring to.

Are there regional variations for the sign “who” in BSL?

The sign is generally consistent across the UK, but some regional dialects may have slight variations in speed or facial expressions.

What are some similar signs to “who”?

Signs for “what,” “where,” and “when” are commonly used in similar contexts when asking questions about people or things.

What tips can you give for learning this sign?

Practice with a partner and pay attention to facial expressions. Watching native signers can also help you understand the nuances better.

Is “who” used the same way in BSL as in spoken English?

Yes, “who” functions similarly in BSL as in spoken English, serving as a question word to ask about identities.

Do I need to use facial expressions when signing “who”?

Absolutely! Non-manual features like raising your eyebrows are essential to indicate that you are asking a question.