Sign of the Day
socket outlet
This sign visually represents pushing a plug into a wall socket. The dominant index finger is the 'plug', the non-dominant palm is the 'socket'
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Dominant G-hand, non-dominant B-hand
Dominant index finger pushes into non-dominant palm
Describing electrical points in a building
Watch, build, and feel the movement
Use the numbered steps first, then check the sign anatomy cards to clean up the small details that make the sign look fluent instead of approximate.
How to form the sign
- Form dominant G-hand
- Form non-dominant B-hand, palm up/forward
- Push dominant index finger into non-dominant palm once
Practice forming handshapes accurately and executing the pushing movement clearly. Focus on the contact point
Signature details
Move from recognition to real-life use
Everything below is designed to make the sign sticky: where it feels natural, what learners miss, and how to use it without sounding robotic.
I need to plug the lamp into the socket outlet
Mimics inserting a plug into a wall socket
Best fit: Describing electrical points in a building
Practice forming handshapes accurately and executing the pushing movement clearly. Focus on the contact point
Ensure the dominant hand's index finger is extended, and the non-dominant hand forms a flat palm. The push should be direct
I need to plug the lamp into the socket outlet
Common mistakes: Confusing with general 'push' sign
When not to use it: When referring to a literal hole, not an electrical point
Regional note: Minimal
Cultural note: N/A
1.[en] Where's the socket? / BSL:[point to wall, then sign]
2.[en] Plug it in here. / BSL:[sign, then point]
3.[en] I need an outlet. / BSL:[sign]
What is the BSL sign for socket outlet?
It uses a dominant G-hand (index finger extended) pushing into a non-dominant B-hand (flat palm).
How do you sign socket outlet in BSL?
Hold your non-dominant hand flat, palm facing slightly up/forward. Use your dominant index finger to push into the palm, mimicking plugging in.
Is socket outlet one-handed or two-handed in BSL?
This sign is typically two-handed, as it requires both hands to represent the plug (dominant index) and the socket (non-dominant palm).
What handshape is used for socket outlet in BSL?
The dominant hand uses a G-hand (index finger extended). The non-dominant hand uses a B-hand (flat palm, fingers together).
How does socket outlet differ from similar signs in BSL?
It's similar to 'push' but specifically targets the palm, representing a distinct object. 'Plug' might involve a more general insertion, while 'button' often uses a different handshape or location.
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Word web
PUSH: Similar movement (finger against surface) but often uses a different handshape or direction, and a more general meaning of exerting force. PLUG: Can be similar, but 'plug' often refers to the object itself or the action of connecting, sometimes using a more abstract motion or specific plug shape. BUTTON: Often uses a similar G-hand, but usually taps a different location (e.g., chest, other hand's thumb) and has a tapping motion rather than a firm push representing insertion
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