Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “support” in British Sign Language (BSL). Whether you’re learning BSL for personal or professional reasons, knowing how to express support is crucial in various situations. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways of saying “support” in BSL, providing you with tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say Support
When expressing support formally in BSL, it’s imperative to use appropriate signs and gestures. Here are a few key signs to convey the concept of support:
1. Sign for “Support”
The sign for “support” in BSL involves placing your non-dominant hand flat, palm facing upward. Then, with your dominant hand, place the heel of your palm on the non-dominant hand and gently push upwards. This sign symbolizes the notion of providing stability and assistance, which aligns with the concept of support.
Tip: Remember, in BSL, the placement of your hands and facial expressions are crucial. Maintain a warm facial expression to convey empathy and kindness, further enhancing your communication of support.
Informal Way to Say Support
When using BSL in informal situations, such as with friends, family, or within casual conversations, there’s some flexibility in how you can express support. Here are a few informal variations of the sign for “support” in BSL:
1. Informal Sign for “Support”
To express support informally, you can use a simplified version of the formal sign. Instead of placing the heel of your palm on the non-dominant hand, you can simply use an open hand gesture that moves upward. This variation still conveys the meaning of support effectively.
2. Casual Sign for “Support”
In casual situations, you have the flexibility to use even more simplified signs that are commonly used within the BSL community. You can show support by simply raising your thumbs up or extending your arm with a gentle nod. These gestures are often recognized as positive indications of support in BSL.
Regional Variations
Across different regions in the UK, there can be variations in how BSL signs are performed and interpreted. However, when it comes to expressing support in BSL, the signs mentioned above are widely understood and accepted throughout the country. It’s always beneficial to be open to learning and adapting to any regional variations you may encounter, as this can foster better communication with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Tips and Examples
It’s important to remember that learning any sign language requires practice and patience. Here are a few tips and examples to further enhance your understanding of how to say “support” in BSL:
1. Context Matters
When expressing support, ensure you consider the context of the situation as it influences the signs or gestures you use. Supporting someone emotionally may differ from supporting them physically or providing financial assistance.
2. Pair Signs with Facial Expressions
Facial expressions play an integral role in BSL communication, as they provide additional meaning and context to signs. When signing “support,” use a sincere and caring facial expression to convey your genuine desire to assist and uplift.
3. Practice Active Listening
Active listening is essential in any form of communication. By attentively observing others signing “support” in BSL, you can improve your understanding of the subtleties and nuances associated with this sign.
4. Seek Guidance from Native Signers
If possible, connect with fluent native signers or join BSL classes. Engaging in conversations and interacting with individuals experienced in BSL will help you refine your signing skills, including the expression of support.
5. Create Encouraging Spaces
Incorporate BSL into your daily life by creating inclusive spaces where deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals feel comfortable using their preferred language. Encouraging and embracing BSL promotes understanding and allows meaningful support to be expressed.
Remember, learning BSL is an ongoing journey, and this guide has provided you with a solid foundation to start expressing support. By practicing the signs, adopting appropriate facial expressions, and respecting any regional variations, you’ll become more proficient in conveying support effectively in BSL.
