British Sign Language (BSL) is a rich and diverse language that uses a variety of signs to communicate meaning. Understanding the different types of signs in BSL is essential for both learners and those looking to deepen their knowledge of deaf culture and deaf communication. The categorisation of signs can be based on how closely they represent the concept they refer to and how they are produced physically. Let’s explore these categories.
Iconicity of signs in BSL
The concept of iconicity in sign language refers to how closely a sign resembles the word or concept it represents. Signs in BSL can be classified into three categories based on their iconicity: high, medium, and arbitrary.
High iconicity: A sign with high iconicity has a direct, often obvious connection between the gesture and the word it represents. For example, the sign for “drink” mimics the action of holding a cup and drinking, making it easily recognisable even by people who don’t know BSL.
Medium iconicity: These signs have a less obvious connection to their meaning. While there is a relationship between the sign and the word, it may not be immediately apparent. A sign for something like “time” might fall into this category.
Arbitrary iconicity: In this case, the sign does not visually resemble the concept it represents, and there is no clear relationship between the sign and its meaning. Signs for concepts such as “government” or “friend” might fall into this category.
High iconicity signs, being more visually intuitive, are easier to remember and can often be understood even by those unfamiliar with BSL. For instance, the sign for “drink” is frequently used outside of the Deaf community, such as in noisy environments, to ask someone if they’d like a drink.
Compound and sequential signs in BSL
BSL also features compound signs, which are made up of two individual signs combined to convey a single meaning. For example, the sign for “believe” is a compound of “think” and “true”.
Sequential signs: In a compound sign, the individual signs are performed one after the other. The sign for “believe” starts with the sign for “think”, followed by the sign for “true”.
Simultaneous signs: In contrast, some signs are simultaneous, meaning two signs occur at the same time. An example is the sign for “minicom”- one hand makes the sign for “telephone” while the other hand forms the sign for “typewriter”.
Understanding whether a sign is sequential or simultaneous is important as it affects how the sign is produced and interpreted. If the non-manual element is forgotten or not properly coordinated, the meaning can change or become unclear.
Manual, non-manual features, and multi-channel signs in BSL
In BSL, signs can also be classified by the part of the body used to form them:
Manual signs: These are signs that are created entirely with the hands.
Non-manual features: These features are formed using parts of the body other than the hands. A key example of non-manual features are facial expressions, which are crucial for expressing emotions, questions, and grammatical features.
Multi-channel signs: These combine both manual and non-manual elements. For example, a sign that uses the hands along with a facial expression or head movement falls into this category.
Facial expressions in BSL are not optional; they are an essential part of the language, often altering the meaning of a sign. If a non-manual component is omitted, it can lead to misunderstanding or ambiguity. For example, raising your eyebrows while asking a question is essential in BSL, as it signals that you’re seeking an answer rather than making a statement.
The role of facial expressions in BSL
In British Sign Language, facial expressions play a pivotal role in communication, much like intonation in spoken language. They add emotional depth and context to the message being conveyed. For instance, a phrase that is positive in words may need a negative facial expression to communicate how the signer truly feels.
Some facial expressions in BSL are intuitive, such as a frown indicating confusion, frustration, or sadness. In other cases, expressions such as raised eyebrows serve to indicate that a sign is a question, distinguishing it from a simple statement.
Learning to use facial expressions in BSL is not just about mimicking the signs, but also about understanding the culture and nuances of Deaf communication. For many in the Deaf community, these facial expressions are integral to expressing their true intentions and emotions.
BSL and Deaf Culture
BSL is more than just a mode of communication, it is deeply intertwined with Deaf culture. In the UK, more than 150,000 people use BSL, and it plays a vital role in ensuring that Deaf individuals can communicate effectively with others, whether they are part of the Deaf community or not. Since being officially recognised by the British government in 2003, BSL has seen greater awareness and appreciation, contributing to a broader understanding of Deaf culture and the importance of deaf communication.
BSL is a point of pride for many in the Deaf community, acting as both a language and a cultural marker. It supports the social, educational, and professional lives of Deaf individuals, helping them maintain their identity and embracing an inclusive environment for all.
Conclusion
Understanding the various types of signs in BSL, whether they are iconic, compound, sequential, or multi-channel, is essential for anyone learning British Sign Language. Additionally, recognising the critical role of facial expressions and the non-manual elements in BSL can greatly enhance communication and understanding. It’s important to remember that BSL is not just a tool for communication, but also an essential part of Deaf culture and the lived experiences of the Deaf community.
For anyone seeking to connect with the Deaf community or improve their skills in Deaf communication, mastering the intricacies of British Sign Language is a meaningful and rewarding endeavour.
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