In British Sign Language (BSL), introducing yourself and stating your name is an important part of communication. Whether you want to make new friends, attend social gatherings, or simply interact with the Deaf community, knowing how to say “My name is” in BSL is a valuable skill. This guide will provide you with formal and informal ways of expressing your name, along with some useful tips and examples to enhance your understanding.
Table of Contents
Formal Expression:
When introducing yourself formally in BSL, it is essential to demonstrate respect and maintain appropriate etiquette. Here’s how to say “My name is” formally:
Gloss: MY NAME
Sign: Raise your dominant hand with a flat palm near your chest, then move it forward in a small circular motion.
Remember to keep your movements smooth and fluid. This formal expression is suitable for professional settings, formal introductions, or when meeting someone for the first time.
Tips:
- Maintain eye contact while signing to show attentiveness and respect.
- Keep your facial expression neutral and relaxed.
- Ensure that your handshape remains consistent throughout the sign.
- Practice the sign “MY NAME” in front of a mirror to refine your movements.
Examples:
Here are a few examples of how you can use the formal expression “My name is” in BSL:
- Person A: MY NAME, JOHN
- Person B: MY NAME, MARY
- Person C: MY NAME, DAVID
Remember to replace “JOHN,” “MARY,” and “DAVID” in the examples above with your own name.
Informal Expression:
In more casual situations, such as social gatherings or among friends, you may want to use an informal expression for introducing yourself in BSL. Here’s how to say “My name is” informally:
Gloss: NAME ME
Sign: Point to yourself by touching your chest with your index finger while using your other hand to mime writing your name in the air.
The informal expression is typically used when communicating with friends, peers, or in informal social gatherings. It demonstrates friendliness and ease in conversation.
Tips:
- Make sure your finger points to your own chest when indicating “ME.”
- Create a circular or wave-like motion with your writing hand to depict writing your name.
- You can vary the speed and style of your writing gesture to add personal flair to your sign.
- Be attentive to your facial expression, ensuring that it reflects your intent to engage in a friendly conversation.
Examples:
Let’s explore a few examples of how to use the informal expression “My name is” in BSL:
- Person A: NAME ME, LISA
- Person B: NAME ME, SAM
- Person C: NAME ME, ALEX
Remember to personalize the above examples by replacing “LISA,” “SAM,” and “ALEX” with your own name.
Regional Variations:
BSL has some regional variations across different parts of the United Kingdom, but when it comes to expressing “My name is,” the signs are usually consistent. However, in some local variations, you may find variations in handshape or slight adaptations to the movement. If you are in a specific region and notice such variations, it’s best to learn from and mimic the local signers.
Conclusion:
Knowing how to introduce yourself in BSL is an invaluable skill for effective communication with the Deaf community. By familiarizing yourself with both formal and informal expressions of “My name is,” you will be equipped to engage in a variety of social interactions. Remember to practice the signs regularly, paying special attention to accurate handshapes, smooth movements, and appropriate facial expressions. With time and practice, you’ll be able to confidently introduce yourself and engage in meaningful communication within the BSL community.
