British Sign Language (BSL) is a visual language widely used by the Deaf community in the United Kingdom. It is a beautiful language that relies on hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning. If you want to learn how to say “goodnight” in BSL, we have you covered! In this guide, you will find both formal and informal ways to bid someone a goodnight in BSL, along with tips and examples to enhance your understanding. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say Goodnight in BSL
When saying goodnight formally in BSL, it’s important to convey respect and politeness. Here are a few ways you can do so:
A Single Handed Sign
In formal settings, it is common to use one hand to sign “goodnight” in BSL. Follow these steps to do the sign:
- Extend your dominant hand in front of you with your palm facing downwards.
- Place your fingertips gently on your lips and move your hand in a downward arc towards the middle of your other hand, which is held flat.
- Lower your hand until your fingertips touch your other hand.
- Repeat this motion once or twice to convey the desired emphasis.
Remember to maintain a respectful posture and facial expression while signing. This formal sign is commonly used when saying goodnight to someone you respect, such as elders, employers, or strangers.
A Two-Handed Sign
Another formal way to say goodnight in BSL is by using a two-handed sign. This sign is considered more formal and is often used in professional settings or when addressing a group of people. Follow these steps to perform the sign:
- Place both of your hands in front of you with your palms facing downwards.
- Rest one hand on top of the other.
- Bring both hands down together in a downward arc towards your stomach, simultaneously curving them towards each other.
- Touch the fingertips of both hands together briefly before separating them again.
- Repeat this motion once or twice.
While performing this sign, remember to maintain eye contact with the person or people you’re addressing. This two-handed sign is a polite way to say goodnight in a formal setting.
Informal Ways to Say Goodnight in BSL
In more casual or informal situations, you may want to opt for a different sign to say goodnight in BSL. These signs are commonly used among friends and family members. Let’s explore a few informal ways to convey goodnight:
A Relaxed Hand Wave
When saying goodnight to friends or family in an informal way, a relaxed hand wave is often used. Here’s how you can do this sign:
- Raise your dominant hand up to shoulder height while keeping your fingers slightly spread apart.
- Move your hand from side to side in a gentle waving motion.
This informal sign indicates a casual and friendly goodnight. It is a simplified version of the formal signs mentioned earlier.
A Kiss Gesture
Another informal way to say goodnight in BSL is by using a kiss gesture. This sign is typically used among close friends or family members. Follow these steps to perform the sign:
- Pucker your lips and touch them gently with the fingertips of your dominant hand.
- Extend your hand towards the person you’re saying goodnight to and slightly move your hand forward, as if you’re blowing a kiss.
This sign indicates a warm and affectionate goodnight. It is often used between partners or family members who have a close bond.
Tips and Examples for Saying Goodnight in BSL
Here are some additional tips and examples to enhance your understanding of saying goodnight in BSL:
Tips:
- Practice your hand movements to ensure clarity and fluency in your signing.
- Pay attention to facial expressions and body language while signing, as they contribute to the overall meaning and tone.
- Adapt your signing style based on the formality of the situation and the relationship you have with the person you’re saying goodnight to.
Examples:
When saying goodnight to your grandparents, use the formal single-handed sign as a sign of respect.
If you’re saying goodnight to your friends after a fun evening, opt for the informal relaxed hand wave to maintain a casual tone.
When bidding your partner goodnight, use the informal kiss gesture for a loving and affectionate send-off.
Remember that British Sign Language is a dynamic and expressive language, and there may be regional variations in signs. However, the signs mentioned in this guide are widely understood throughout various regions of the UK. Embrace the beauty of BSL as you learn to say goodnight in both formal and informal ways!
