BSL vs ASL: Alphabet, Grammar and Sign Differences

Many people think British Sign Language (BSL) and American Sign Language (ASL) are the same. However, they are two different sign languages. If you compare BSL vs ASL, you will see that they have different hand alphabets, signs, grammar, and history. ASL uses a one-handed alphabet and is mainly used in the United States and Canada. BSL uses a two-handed alphabet and is used across the United Kingdom. These two languages also come from different language families, so they share only about 30% of their signs. 

This guide makes the differences between BSL vs ASL easy to understand.

What Is BSL (British Sign Language)?

British Sign Language (BSL) is a language that uses hand signs instead of spoken words. People also use facial expressions and body movements to share ideas and feelings. For many Deaf people, BSL is their first language.

People use BSL in the United Kingdom. Many Deaf people use it every day. Also, family members, teachers, interpreters, and support workers learn BSL to communicate more easily.

The UK officially recognised British Sign Language as a language in 2022. This was an important step for the Deaf community. It also helped more people understand the value of BSL.

BSL has been used for many years. Over time, it has grown into a full language with its own grammar and signs. Today, it helps thousands of people communicate, learn, and take part in everyday life.

What is ASL (American Sign Language)?

American Sign Language (ASL) is a language that uses hand signs instead of spoken words. People also use facial expressions and body movements to communicate. For many Deaf people, ASL is their first language.

People use ASL mainly in the United States and Canada. Many Deaf people use it every day. Also, family members, teachers, interpreters, and friends learn ASL to talk with Deaf people.

ASL is a recognised sign language in the United States and Canada. Many schools, colleges, and organisations use and teach ASL.

ASL started many years ago. It grew from French Sign Language (LSF) and other local sign languages. Today, ASL is a complete language with its own grammar and signs. It helps millions of people communicate every day.

BSL vs ASL: What is the Difference?

BSL and ASL are both sign languages, but they are different. They have different signs, grammar, alphabets, and history. Because of this, a person who uses BSL may not understand a person who uses ASL. The table below shows the main differences.

Both BSL and ASL are full languages. However, they are not the same. If you live in the UK, BSL is the best choice. If you live in the United States or Canada, ASL is the better option.

Is BSL the Same as ASL?

No, BSL and ASL are not the same. They are two different sign languages. They have different signs, grammar, hand alphabets, and history. BSL is used in the UK. ASL is used in the United States and Canada.

BSL and ASL share only about 30% of their signs. Some signs may look alike, but most signs are different. They also use different hand alphabets to spell words.

Because of this, a BSL user may not understand an ASL user. They may understand a few signs, but they cannot easily have a full conversation. So, it is best to learn the sign language that people use in your country or the place where you want to study or work.

Which Alphabet Does BSL and ASL Use?

One of the biggest differences between BSL and ASL is the alphabet. Both languages use hand signs to spell words. However, they do not use the same alphabet.

BSL uses a two-handed alphabet. You need both hands to make each letter. One hand stays in place, and the other hand makes the letter. People use this alphabet across the United Kingdom.

ASL uses a one-handed alphabet. You make every letter with one hand. People use this alphabet in the United States and Canada. Many people find it quick and easy to use after regular practice.

Because the alphabets are different, a person who knows BSL may not understand ASL fingerspelling. The same is true for an ASL user. Even simple words can look very different. So, if you want to learn sign language, it is important to choose the one that people use in your country.

Do BSL and ASL Have Different Grammar?

Yes, BSL and ASL have different grammar. They do not follow the same rules when making sentences. This is one reason why they are different languages.

BSL often uses Subject, Object, Verb word order. On the other hand, ASL often uses Subject, Verb, Object. Because of this, the same message can look different in each language.

Both sign languages also use facial expressions to show meaning. However, they do not use them in the same way. ASL often uses eyebrow movements to ask questions or add meaning. BSL also uses facial expressions, but it places more focus on mouth patterns and body movements.

For example, a simple sentence like “I like books” may use a different sign order in BSL and ASL. Even though the meaning stays the same, the signs and grammar are different. So, learning the grammar is just as important as learning the signs.

Can BSL Users Understand ASL Users?

In most cases, no. BSL users and ASL users cannot easily understand each other. This is because the two languages have different signs, grammar, and hand alphabets.

They share only about 30% of their signs. A few signs may look the same, but most signs are different. Because of this, it is hard to have a full conversation without learning the other sign language.

Also, BSL uses a two-handed alphabet, while ASL uses a one-handed alphabet. Their grammar is different too. These differences make communication more difficult. However, an interpreter can help. An interpreter knows both BSL and ASL and can help people understand each other. This is useful at meetings, events, schools, and workplaces.

If you plan to live or work in the UK, learning BSL is the best choice. If you are moving to the United States or Canada, ASL will be more useful. Learning the right sign language will help you communicate with confidence.

Which is Easier to Learn: BSL or ASL?

Many people ask if BSL or ASL is easier to learn. The answer depends on your situation. Both languages take time and practice. Neither one is easier for everyone.

If you live in the UK, BSL is the best choice. You can find more BSL classes, teachers, and people to practise with. This can help you learn faster. If you live in the United States or Canada, ASL is the better choice. Many schools and community groups teach ASL. You will also have more chances to use it every day.

Think about why you want to learn sign language. You may want to talk with a Deaf family member, help people at work, or learn a new skill. Also, practise as often as you can. The more you practise, the easier it will become.

Should You Learn BSL or ASL?

You should learn the sign language that people use where you live or work. This will help you communicate with more people.

If you live in the UK, choose BSL. It is the sign language most deaf people use. You can also find many BSL classes and learning groups. If you live in the United States or Canada, choose ASL. It is the sign language that most Deaf people use there.

Learning sign language can also help your career. Some schools, hospitals, charities, and customer service jobs look for people who know BSL or ASL. It can also help if you have Deaf friends or family members.

If you travel often, think about where you are going. Learn BSL if you visit the UK. Learn ASL if you visit the United States or Canada. This will make it easier to communicate with local people.

Where Can You Learn BSL or ASL?

Learning BSL or ASL is easier today. You can learn from home or join a class near you. Select the learning method that is best for you. Also, try to practise every day. Even a few minutes of practice can help you improve.

BSL Learning Options

Learning British Sign Language (BSL) is easy because there are many good courses to choose from.

• Online courses: You can learn at home with easy video lessons. Study when you have free time.
• Colleges: Many colleges offer BSL courses for beginners. Some also have higher-level courses.
• Community classes: Local groups often run BSL classes. You can learn with other people and practise together.
• Apps: BSL apps teach signs, the alphabet, and easy words. They are a simple way to practise every day.

ASL Learning Options

If you want to learn American Sign Language (ASL), you also have many ways to start.

• Online courses: Many websites have easy ASL lessons for beginners.
• Universities: Some universities teach ASL as a language course.
• Apps: ASL apps help you learn new signs with short lessons and practice activities.
• Deaf community events: You can meet ASL users and practise your signing. This is a good way to build confidence and learn from real conversations.

Benefits of Learning Sign Language

Learning sign language can bring many good changes to your life. It helps you talk with more people and understand the Deaf community better. It also gives you a useful skill that you can use every day.

Sign language helps you talk with Deaf people more easily. So, you can have better conversations and make stronger friendships. It also helps you understand others with kindness and respect.

Learning BSL or ASL can also help your career. Many schools, hospitals, charities, and customer service jobs look for people with sign language skills. This skill can also make your CV stronger.

Sign language also helps build a welcoming workplace. Because people can understand each other, deaf and hearing people work better together. Everyone feels included.

When you learn sign language, you also support the Deaf community. It lets people know you value their language and culture. Even a simple conversation can make someone feel welcome and understood.

Finally, learning sign language helps you grow as a person. It can improve your memory, build your confidence, and teach you a new way to communicate. It is a skill that can help you for many years.

Common Myths About BSL and ASL

Many people believe things about sign language that are not true. These myths can confuse new learners. Here are some common myths and the real facts.

Myth: All sign languages are the same.

• Fact: This is not true. BSL, ASL, and other sign languages are different. They have their own signs, grammar, and rules.

Myth: Sign language is universal.

• Fact: This is not true. Different countries use different sign languages. For example, people in the UK use BSL, while people in the United States and Canada use ASL.

Myth: Sign language is only for Deaf people.

• Fact: Anyone can learn sign language. Many parents, teachers, friends, interpreters, and support workers use it every day.

Myth: BSL came from ASL.

• Fact: This is not true. BSL and ASL have different histories. BSL grew in the UK, while ASL developed from French Sign Language (LSF) and other local sign languages.

Final Words on BSL vs ASL

BSL and ASL are both sign languages, but they are different. They have different signs, grammar, hand alphabets, and history. BSL is used in the UK, while ASL is used in the United States and Canada. Choose the sign language that people use where you live, work, or study. This will help you communicate more easily. Learning BSL or ASL is a great skill. It helps you talk with more people and understand the Deaf community better. Also, remember to respect every sign language because each one is important and has its own culture.

FAQs

1. Is it better to learn ASL or BSL?

• It depends on where you live. Learn BSL if you live in the UK. Learn ASL if you live in the United States or Canada.

2. Can ASL understand BSL?

• Not usually. ASL and BSL are different languages. They share only about 30% of their signs, so users may understand only a few signs.

3. Is BSL a dying language?

• No. BSL is not a dying language. Thousands of people in the UK use it every day. It also became an officially recognised language in 2022.

4. How do you say poo in BSL?

• There is a BSL sign for “poo”, but signs can change by region. The best way to learn it is from a BSL teacher or a trusted BSL learning video.

5. Does the UK use asl or BSL?

• The UK uses British Sign Language (BSL). ASL is mainly used in the United States and Canada.

6. Is asl taught on Duolingo?

• No. At the moment, Duolingo does not offer an ASL course.

7. When was BSL banned?

• BSL was never officially banned across the UK. However, after the Milan Conference in 1880, many schools stopped using sign language and focused on speech instead.

8. How do I say “I’m sorry” in BSL?

• BSL has a sign for “I’m sorry.” The sign can be different in some parts of the UK. It is best to learn it from a qualified BSL teacher or a trusted BSL learning resource.