Young in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “young” in British Sign Language (BSL) expresses the concept of youth or being young. This sign is often used in conversations about age, family, and personal experiences within the UK Deaf community.

How to Sign “Young” in BSL

1. Begin with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (fingers extended and together, palm facing down).
2. Position your hand near your chin, with the fingertips touching your chin.
3. Move your hand forward and slightly downward in a gentle arc away from your face.
4. Maintain a relaxed facial expression, and consider raising your eyebrows slightly as you sign to indicate the youthful quality.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use appropriate facial expressions, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not using the correct handshape or positioning, which may lead to confusion with other signs.
• Failing to incorporate the topic-comment structure, which is essential in BSL for clarity.

BSL vs ASL

In American Sign Language (ASL), the sign for “young” is different, often using a single hand shape that moves away from the forehead. In BSL, the incorporation of facial expressions and specific hand movements makes the sign distinct and culturally relevant within the UK context.

Related Signs

• Old – the sign for describing someone of an older age.
• Age – a sign used to refer to someone’s age in a general context.
• Kid – a sign that refers to a child or young person.
• Family – a sign used when discussing family members, often involving young individuals.
• Teenager – specifically refers to a young person in their teenage years.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You might say, “MY BROTHER YOUNG,” using the sign for “my” followed by “brother” and then “young.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

Generally, the sign for “young” is consistent across the UK, but some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expressions.

What other signs are similar to “young”?

Signs like “kid” and “teenager” are related and may be used in similar contexts when discussing age.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions, and try to incorporate it into conversation to reinforce your learning.

Can I use the sign for “young” in different contexts?

Yes, “young” can be used when talking about people, animals, or even ideas that might be considered new or fresh.

Is there a sign for “youth” in BSL?

Yes, the sign for “youth” is similar to “young,” but it often involves a different handshape or movement to convey the nuance.