Communicating politely is important in any language, and British Sign Language (BSL) is no exception. Saying “please” is a simple way to show respect and courtesy. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “please” in BSL. We’ll begin with some general tips before diving into examples and variations.
Table of Contents
Tips for Using “Please” in BSL
Before we explore the different ways to say “please” in BSL, keep these tips in mind:
- Use appropriate facial expressions to convey politeness. A warm smile and attentive eye contact can enhance your message.
- If you are unsure about the regional variation of a sign, it’s best to stick to the standardized BSL sign.
- Remember that context matters. The formality of your relationship, situation, and reason for using “please” may influence your choice of sign.
- If you’re interacting with a Deaf person, remember to ensure good lighting, minimize background noise, and maintain eye contact to facilitate effective communication. These factors can greatly impact your ability to convey politeness through sign language.
Formal Ways to Say “Please” in BSL
In formal scenarios, such as addressing strangers or individuals in positions of authority, it’s best to use signs that convey a higher level of respect. Here are some formal ways to say “please” in BSL:
- “Please” (Standard Sign): Start with your dominant hand open, palm facing down. Touch your chest with fingertips and move your hand forward in an arc.
- “Please” (Regional Variation): In some regions, BSL speakers use a different sign for “please.” The sign begins with your dominant hand open, palm facing down, and touches the chest or shoulder before moving forward.
Remember to maintain a respectful demeanor and appropriate facial expressions while using these signs.
Informal Ways to Say “Please” in BSL
When interacting with friends, family, or peers on a casual basis, a less formal sign may be more appropriate. Here are a few informal ways to say “please” in BSL:
- “Please” (Informal Sign): Take your dominant hand and move it in a small circular motion over the center of your chest.
- “Please” (Regional Variation): Some regions have additional informal signs. For example, sign language users may tap their non-dominant wrist with the index finger of their dominant hand while signing “please.”
Remember to adjust your sign choice based on your relationship and the level of formality required in a given situation.
Putting It into Practice: Examples
Let’s explore a few examples of how to use “please” in various situations:
Example 1: If you are at a restaurant and want to ask the waiter to bring you the menu, you can use the formal sign for “please” when making the request.
Example 2: When asking your friend to pass you a book, you can use the informal sign without any reservations.
Remember to adapt your signing to match the specific context you find yourself in.
Conclusion
Using “please” in British Sign Language allows you to convey respect, politeness, and courtesy. Understanding both formal and informal signs for “please” gives you the flexibility to interact appropriately in various situations. Remember to consider the context and your relationship with the other person when choosing the appropriate sign. By using these signs along with proper facial expressions and body language, you can enhance effective communication in BSL. Start practicing, and enjoy the beauty of expressing politeness in sign language!
