You Drink in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “you drink” in BSL is commonly used to ask someone if they would like a drink, or to offer a drink in a conversation. It reflects a friendly interaction within the Deaf community and can be used in various social settings, such as in homes, cafes, or during gatherings.

How to Sign “You Drink In Bsl” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in the shape of a “C” (like you are holding a cup).
2. Position your hand near your mouth, with your palm facing towards you.
3. Move your hand away from your mouth slightly, as if you are bringing a drink to your lips.
4. For the “you” part, point towards the person you are addressing with your non-dominant hand.
5. Maintain a friendly facial expression, showing that you are offering a drink.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to incorporate the non-manual features, such as facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the meaning.
• Not using the correct hand shape; using a flat hand instead of a “C” shape can change the meaning.
• Confusing the sign with similar signs for “eat” or “give,” which have different hand movements.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “you drink” uses the “C” handshape and focuses on the action of drinking, while ASL typically uses a different handshape and movement. BSL emphasizes facial expressions and the topic-comment structure more than ASL, which can lead to variations in how the sign is performed.

Related Signs

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “you drink” in a BSL sentence?

You can say “YOU DRINK TEA?” to ask someone if they would like to drink tea.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

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

What are some similar signs to “you drink”?

Related signs include “you eat,” “you want,” and “you give,” each having distinct hand movements and meanings.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Watching native signers can also help.

Can I use this sign in a formal setting?

Yes, you can use it in formal settings, but ensure your expressions are respectful and appropriate for the context.

Is it okay to sign “you drink” when offering drinks?

Absolutely! It’s a friendly way to offer someone a drink in social situations.