In this guide, we will explore how to say “Happy New Year” in British Sign Language (BSL). Whether you want to greet your deaf friends, family, or colleagues, learning how to express seasonal good wishes in BSL can foster connections and inclusivity. We will cover both formal and informal ways to convey these greetings and provide tips, examples, and even a few regional variations for added understanding.
Table of Contents
Formal Greetings: How to Say Happy New Year in BSL
Formal greetings in BSL are commonly used in professional settings or when showing respect to someone you may not know well. Here is the formal way to say “Happy New Year”:
1. Make a closed fist with your dominant hand, with your thumb resting on top of your fingers.
2. Starting from your mouth, bring your hand forward and upward in a straight line. As you do this, your hand should open up with your fingers spreading out towards the end, symbolizing the year unfolding and possibilities ahead.
Now, let’s move on to informal greetings that you can use with friends and acquaintances.
Informal Greetings: How to Say Happy New Year in BSL
Informal greetings in BSL are more relaxed and can be used among friends, family, or colleagues with whom you share a closer relationship. Here is an informal way to say “Happy New Year” in BSL:
1. Similar to the formal greeting, start with a closed fist, thumb resting on top of your fingers.
2. Instead of a straight line, move your hand from your mouth diagonally upwards towards your non-dominant side. As you do this, your hand should open up with your fingers spreading out, just like the formal greeting.
Now that you know the basic ways to say “Happy New Year,” let’s explore a few tips and further examples to enhance your understanding.
Tips and Examples for Saying Happy New Year in BSL
1. Facial Expressions
Facial expressions are crucial in sign language as they convey emotion and nuances. When saying “Happy New Year” in BSL, make sure to accompany your signs with a warm and joyful expression on your face to reflect the sentiment of the greeting.
2. Speed and Fluency
Aim for smooth and fluid movements when signing “Happy New Year.” Practice the gestures until you can execute them comfortably and with confidence. This will contribute to clearer communication and a more enjoyable signing experience.
3. Non-Manual Features
Non-manual features include eyebrow movement, head nods, and other actions performed simultaneously with signing. Incorporating appropriate non-manual features can enhance the meaning of your signed greetings. For “Happy New Year,” consider adding a slight head nod while signing to convey excitement and positivity.
4. Regional Variations
While BSL is a standardized form of sign language, some regional variations may exist. The gestures and signs for “Happy New Year” discussed here are widely understood across the country. However, it’s worth noting that subtle differences might exist in certain areas. When in doubt, it’s best to observe and learn from local signers to adapt to any regional variations that might arise.
Examples:
Formal: Start with a closed fist, thumb on top, and bring your hand forward and upward in a straight line with fingers spreading out towards the end, symbolizing the year unfolding and possibilities ahead.
Informal: Using a closed fist with your thumb on top, move your hand from your mouth diagonally upwards towards your non-dominant side, with your fingers opening up and spreading out to represent the new year.
By following these tips and examples, you can confidently express your New Year’s greetings in BSL, forging connections and fostering inclusivity within the signing community.
