Your Temperature Is High Low in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “your temperature is high low” is commonly used in the UK Deaf community to describe someone’s body temperature, particularly in medical or health-related contexts. It helps convey important information about health and well-being, especially when discussing fevers or feeling unwell.

How to Sign “Your Temperature Is High Low”

1. Start with “YOUR”: Use your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (palm facing out) to point towards the person you are addressing.
2. Sign “TEMPERATURE”: Form your dominant hand into a ‘T’ shape (thumb placed between your index and middle finger) and tap it against the side of your neck or forehead. This indicates the concept of temperature.
3. Sign “IS”: This can be omitted in BSL as the verb is often implied.
4. Sign “HIGH”: Use your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape and move it upwards, away from your body, indicating an increase in temperature. Non-manual features should include raising your eyebrows to convey emphasis.
5. Sign “LOW”: Use the same flat ‘B’ handshape and move it downwards, indicating a decrease in temperature. This time, your facial expression should be relaxed or neutral.

Common Mistakes

• Confusing the signs for “high” and “low” by not changing the movement direction appropriately.
• Omitting non-manual features, such as facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the correct meaning.
• Using the sign for “temperature” without indicating “your,” which can lead to misunderstandings about whom you are addressing.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “your temperature is high low” incorporates distinct movements for “high” and “low,” while maintaining a topic-comment structure. In contrast, ASL uses a different sign for “temperature” and does not typically separate the concepts of high and low with distinct movements, often combining them into a single flow. This highlights the unique grammar and syntax of each sign language.

Related Signs

• Temperature
• Fever
• Sick
• Well
• Health

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a BSL sentence?

You can use this sign in a sentence like, “YOUR TEMPERATURE HIGH,” followed by the context, such as “IS A CONCERN.”

Are there regional variations for this sign across the UK?

While the core signs remain consistent, some regions may have slight variations in facial expressions or the way certain signs are executed. It’s always best to observe local signers.

What are some similar signs?

Signs related to health and temperature, like “sick” or “fever,” can often be used in conjunction with this sign for clarity.

What learning tips do you have for mastering this sign?

Practice with a deaf friend or in a group to get feedback. Pay attention to non-manual features and facial expressions, as they are essential in BSL.

Can I use this sign in casual conversations?

Yes, you can use this sign informally, especially when discussing health among friends or family.

Is this sign used in medical contexts?

Absolutely! It’s commonly used in healthcare settings, so knowing it can be very helpful.