Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say the word “star” in sign language! Sign language is a beautiful and expressive way of communication used by deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals around the world. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways to sign the word “star” in American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL). While there might be some regional variations, we will focus on the most widely recognized signs. So, let’s dive in and learn how to sign “star”!
Table of Contents
American Sign Language (ASL)
ASL is the dominant sign language used in the United States and many parts of Canada. Here are two ways to say “star” formally and informally in ASL:
Formal Sign:
For the formal sign, use your dominant hand to represent the star’s shape. With your fingers extended and held together, start with your hand near your forehead, then move it downward diagonally to your chest. The movement represents the downward point of a star. This sign demonstrates how a formal star is often seen as a symbol of achievement or recognition.
Example: In the school’s talent show, Emily performed like a shining star, stunning the audience with her singing abilities.
Informal Sign:
The informal sign for “star” in ASL is slightly different. Similar to the formal sign, your dominant hand represents the shape of the star. However, instead of starting near your forehead, you start with your hand near your chin, then move it downward diagonally to your chest. The informal sign is often used in casual conversations and everyday interactions.
Example: The kids laughed and danced happily under the stars during their camping trip.
British Sign Language (BSL)
BSL is the sign language used in the United Kingdom. Here are the formal and informal signs for “star” in BSL:
Formal Sign:
In BSL, the formal sign for “star” is made by using both hands. Start with both index fingers extended and together. Place them near your temples with your palms facing down. Then, simultaneously move your hands outward and slightly upward, forming the shape of a star.
Example: The famous dancer received an award for her outstanding performance, shining like a bright star on stage.
Informal Sign:
The informal sign for “star” in BSL is often used in casual conversations. Using one hand, extend your index finger and move it from your forehead down diagonally to your chest, depicting the downward point of a star.
Example: While stargazing on a clear night, they spotted a shooting star and made a wish silently.
Summary
To recap, here are the formal and informal signs for “star” in both ASL and BSL:
American Sign Language (ASL)
- Formal Sign: Hand near forehead, move downward diagonally.
- Informal Sign: Hand near chin, move downward diagonally.
British Sign Language (BSL)
- Formal Sign: Both hands with extended index fingers starting near temples, move outward and slightly upward.
- Informal Sign: Extend index finger from forehead down diagonally.
Remember, as with any language, it is important to respect and be aware of regional variations when communicating with others who use sign language. These signs will provide a good foundation for expressing “star” in ASL and BSL. Practice and immerse yourself in sign language to further enhance your skills. Sign language opens a window to a vibrant and diverse community, allowing for meaningful connections beyond spoken words.
Now that you have learned the signs for “star” in both ASL and BSL, let your signing journey continue to be as bright as the stars shining above!
