How to Say Good Afternoon in British Sign Language (BSL)

When interacting with individuals who use British Sign Language (BSL), it’s important to have a few essential phrases at your fingertips. One such phrase is “good afternoon.” In this guide, we will explore different ways to express “good afternoon” in BSL, including both formal and informal variations. Additionally, regional variations will be covered if necessary. Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to expand their BSL vocabulary, this guide has got you covered. Let’s get started!

Formal Ways to Say Good Afternoon in BSL

When communicating in a formal context, it’s important to use appropriate sign language etiquette. Here are a few formal variations of “good afternoon” in BSL:

1. Sign Language Greeting: Place your open hand in front of your face, palm facing outward, with fingertips touching your chin. Move your hand upwards and slightly towards the person you are greeting. This signifies a formal acknowledgment of the afternoon.

2. Time of Day Greeting: Use a flat hand facing down and move it from just above your waist towards the person you are greeting. This sign symbolizes the concept of “afternoon” in a formal manner.

Informal Ways to Say Good Afternoon in BSL

In more casual settings, you may want to use a less formal expression of “good afternoon.” Here are a few informal variations of “good afternoon” in BSL:

1. Casual Greeting: Raise your hand with the palm facing towards you, fingers relaxed and gently wiggle your fingers. This gesture conveys a friendly hello in an informal manner.

2. Non-Manual Signals (NMS): Accompany your greeting signs with appropriate NMS, such as a smile or an eyebrow raise, to add a relaxed and informal touch to your conversation.

Regional Variations

BSL has regional variations, and some signs can differ depending on where you are in the UK. However, the variations for “good afternoon” are minimal, and the formal and informal signs mentioned earlier are widely understood across regions. It’s always good to learn and be aware of local variations if you are in a specific area.

Tips for Learning BSL Greetings

When learning how to say “good afternoon” in BSL or any other phrase, keeping the following tips in mind can greatly help:

1. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key! Make a habit of practicing BSL greetings in different settings to develop familiarity and fluency.
2. Watch and Learn: Observe native signers and learn from their expressions, movements, and non-manual signals to enhance your communication skills.
3. Join BSL Classes: Consider enrolling in BSL classes or finding online resources to learn from qualified instructors and interact with fellow learners.
4. Use Online Videos: Utilize online platforms where you can find instructional videos and tutorials specifically designed for BSL beginners.

Examples of Using “Good Afternoon” in Different Contexts

To further grasp the usage of “good afternoon” in BSL, here are a few examples of how it can be used in different contexts:

1. Formal Context: When meeting a colleague at work, you can use the sign for “good afternoon” followed by the appropriate formal non-manual signals to maintain professionalism.
2. Informal Context: Greeting a friend or family member can be accomplished with a more casual sign for “good afternoon” accompanied by a warm smile and relaxed body language.
3. Public Setting: When attending an event or conference, a polite and formal “good afternoon” sign can be used when interacting with individuals you are not familiar with.

Remember, it’s not just about learning the signs but also understanding the appropriate context and non-manual signals that complement greetings in BSL. Practice and immersion in the deaf community can significantly improve your skills and confidence in using BSL greetings effectively.

In conclusion, saying “good afternoon” in BSL involves various signs and non-manual signals, depending on the formality of the situation. While regional variations exist, the signs mentioned in this guide are universally understood. Remember to practice regularly, learn from native signers, and consider joining BSL classes to enhance your knowledge and fluency in BSL. So go ahead, try out these greetings, and enjoy the rewarding experience of communicating in BSL!