Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “today” in British Sign Language (BSL). In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways of expressing “today” in BSL, as well as provide tips and examples to help you better understand the usage of this keyword. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Today” in BSL
When expressing “today” formally in BSL, you can use the sign that specifically represents this concept:
Today (formal BSL sign)
The formal sign for “today” involves touching your non-dominant hand palm-down with your dominant hand fingertips, and then turning your hand 180 degrees while keeping contact between the fingertips and the palm. This sign represents the notion of “today” in a respectful and formal manner.
Informal Ways to Say “Today” in BSL
While the formal sign mentioned above can be used in most situations, BSL also has some informal variations for expressing “today.” These signs are commonly used in everyday conversations:
- Today (informal BSL sign 1): This sign involves pointing your index finger towards the ground and making a slight circular motion. It is a casual and concise way of expressing “today” in BSL.
- Today (informal BSL sign 2): Another informal sign for “today” is to tap a closed fist, with your thumb extended, on your non-dominant forearm. This sign is often used in more relaxed and friendly contexts.
Tips for Expressing “Today” in BSL
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using the signs for “today” in BSL:
- Facial Expressions: Just like in any sign language, facial expressions play a vital role in conveying the intended meaning. When signing “today,” maintain a positive and engaged facial expression that reflects the context of the conversation.
- Clear Hand Movements: Ensure that your hand movements are clear and distinguishable. Focus on the details of each sign to avoid any confusion.
- Non-Manual Signals: BSL incorporates non-manual signals such as head nods, raised eyebrows, and head tilts to enhance communication. These non-manual signals can add nuances to the signs for “today” and convey additional meaning.
Examples of “Today” in BSL
Let’s look at some examples of how “today” can be used in different contexts:
Example 1:
In a formal setting:
Interviewer: “Can you start working on the project today?” Interviewee: (Using the formal sign for “today”) “Yes, absolutely! I can start today.”
Example 2:
In an informal conversation with friends:
Friend: “Do you want to watch a movie today?” You: (Using the informal sign 1 for “today”) “Sure, let’s go watch a movie today!”
Example 3:
In a casual conversation with a colleague:
Colleague: “Are you free for a coffee break?” You: (Using the informal sign 2 for “today”) “Definitely! Let’s grab a coffee today.”
Remember to adapt your signing style based on the formality of the situation and the people you are communicating with. Being aware of the context will help you choose the most appropriate way to express “today” in BSL.
While there may be regional variations or dialects within BSL, the signs we have covered in this guide are commonly used across different regions. However, it’s important to note that sign language, like spoken language, can have variations specific to certain areas. If you encounter any regional variations, feel free to explore and adapt to those as you continue to learn and communicate in BSL.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you will become more proficient in signing “today” in BSL. Remember to have fun and immerse yourself in the rich culture of sign language as you continue your journey of learning and communication.
Happy signing!
