Sign of the Day
Wednesday
The BSL sign for Wednesday uses the 'W' handshape near the temple, indicating the day associated with the letter 'W'
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Dominant hand forms the BSL 'W' handshape
Small, gentle circular movement
Discussing schedules, appointments, or weekly events
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 the BSL 'W' handshape (index, middle, ring fingers extended, thumb and pinky tucked)
- Position dominant hand with palm slightly forward, near the side of your dominant temple/head
- Make a small, gentle circular movement at this location
Practice forming the 'W' handshape and making a small circle at your temple
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 have a meeting on Wednesday. / BSL: ME MEETING WEDNESDAY
Often used in conjunction with other time signs or numbers
Best fit: Discussing schedules, appointments, or weekly events
Practice forming the 'W' handshape and making a small circle at your temple
Ensure your handshape is a clear 'W' and the movement is a small, gentle circle, not a larger sweep
I have a meeting on Wednesday. / BSL: ME MEETING WEDNESDAY
Common mistakes: Confusing with other days like Tuesday or Thursday due to similar location
When not to use it: When referring to another day of the week; ensure context is clear
Regional note: Generally consistent, but slight variations in exact location or movement exist
Cultural note: Days of the week are foundational for scheduling within the Deaf community
1.[en] See you on Wednesday. / BSL:[SEE YOU WEDNESDAY]
2.[en] What day is Wednesday? / BSL:[WEDNESDAY WHAT DAY]
3.[en] My appointment is Wednesday. / BSL:[MY APPOINTMENT WEDNESDAY]
When would a learner use the BSL sign for Wednesday?
Learners use this sign when discussing schedules, planning events, or referring to specific days of the week. It's essential for everyday communication about time and appointments.
What do beginners often get wrong when signing Wednesday in BSL?
Beginners sometimes struggle with forming a clear 'W' handshape or confuse its location with other days. Ensuring the small circular movement is gentle and precise at the temple is key.
Does the BSL sign for Wednesday change by region or context?
While the core sign is generally consistent across the UK, minor regional variations in the exact hand position or size of the circular movement can occur. Context usually clarifies meaning.
Is the BSL sign for Wednesday suitable for beginners or children?
Yes, it is a foundational sign, suitable for beginners and children. It's often taught early in BSL learning alongside other days of the week due to its high frequency of use.
Which sign is most often confused with Wednesday in BSL?
Learners sometimes confuse Wednesday with 'Tuesday' or 'Thursday', as both are days of the week signed near the head. 'Tuesday' uses a 'T' handshape; 'Thursday' uses a 'Th' or 'T' with specific movement.
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Word web
Tuesday: Uses a 'T' handshape at the temple, typically with a smaller, repeated movement. Thursday: Often uses a 'Th' fingerspelling (or 'T' handshape) starting at the temple and moving forward or down slightly. Wednesday is distinct with its clear 'W' handshape
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Video credit: The demonstration video on this page is credited to SpreadTheSign. The video remains the property of the original rightholder.
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