Sign

How to Say No in Sign Language – Video and Image Included

Saying “no” is one of the first things you learn in your sign language journey. If your loved one or friends are Deaf or hard of hearing, you probably learn sign language to communicate with them. Well, you’ve come to the right place. So we’ll teach you how to express “no” in BSL with easy and simple steps.

If you are working with the Deaf community, you must learn these beautiful ways of expressing your emotions to them. It will make your relationship stronger to connect with them. Moreover, it is easy to communicate with them through signs.

We will show you how to say ‘no’ in Sign Language, especially in British Sign Language. Following the steps can make your learning journey easier.

Table of Content

Differences Between Sign and Spoken Language
How to Say ‘No’ in British Sign Language?
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Read Next:

Differences Between Sign and Spoken Language

Sign and spoken language are not similar. But learning them can be easier if you can be consistent. Before understanding the signs, you should know the differences between sign and spoken language. Here are the differences-

Feature	Sign Language	Spoken Language
Mode of Communication	Uses hand movements, facial expressions, and body language	Audio and vocal
Grammar	Has grammar and syntax according to signs	Follows the grammatical rules of spoken language
Medium of Expression	Hands, face, gesture, and posture	Voice and sound
Alphabetical System	Uses fingerspelling in some languages	Uses spoken and written letters and characters
Regional Variations	Different sign languages in various countries (Example: BSL, ASL, JSL)	Different spoken languages (Example: English, Spanish, French)
Tone and Emotion	Expressed through facial expressions and body language	Expressed through vocal tone, pitch, and intonation

How to Say ‘No’ in British Sign Language?

If you are a beginner, you can easily learn to sign the British Sign Language (BSL) sign for ‘no’. It’s the primary word you should learn if you want to communicate with individuals who use signs to express themselves. Here are some quick steps to learn to express ‘no’ in sign communication.

Step 1: Keep a normal posture. Cross both your palms, and if you’re sitting somewhere, put them on your lap.

Step 2: Start by crossing your palms over one another. Both palms should face the floor.

Step 3: Spread them both outwards, towards both left and right.

Step 4: Once extended sufficiently, return them to their original position.

Step 5: Say the word ‘no’ in your signing.

Step 6: Shake your head left and right. This is the same gesture we use to mean no.

Step 7: Depending on the context, it’s always a good idea to keep a smile on your face.

If you are still confused about these steps, watch the short video below.

Are you ready to learn British Sign Language (BSL)?

Our BSL Beginners Course helps you master BSL greetings, fingerspelling, and everyday conversations. You’ll also learn about Deaf culture, communication tools, and inclusion techniques. Join live Zoom classes with expert tutors and get a CPD-accredited certificate.

Check this blog to express ‘I love you’ in British Sign Language.

Conclusion

So, that’s how we say ‘no’ in British sign language. Ensure that the person you’re communicating with can see you. Anyone can easily misinterpret signs if the signer’s posture or gestures aren’t visible. Practice these steps a few times, mimic the video a few times, and you’ll be all good to go. Also, remember to keep a regular practice, or you’ll quickly forget the sign.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Hearing People Teach Sign Language?

Hearing people can teach signs. But it is better to learn it from someone more familiar with grammar, syntax, and mode of sign communication. As hearing people don’t have practice on this, it can create confusion between expressions and gestures.

Can Sign Language Be Used to Communicate in Emergencies?

Yes. Signs can be used to communicate in emergencies, particularly for the Deaf and those who are hard of hearing. Moreover, you can use signs to protect yourself and ask for help in emergency situations. Learning the emergency signs can be helpful for everyone.

Is Sign Language Taught in Schools?

Sign language is not common in schools. However, some schools are taking the initiative to teach signs in school. Additionally, there are courses available online and offline to provide proper training in sign language. Check this out if you want to learn British Sign Language.