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Archive Replay
Monday, June 30, 2025
Sign of the Day
crowbar
The sign for 'crowbar' mimics the action of using the tool, with a dominant G-hand representing the bar and performing a prying motion
B1 Uncommon Noun British Sign Language (BSL) Neutral
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Dominant G-hand, index finger extended, rigid
Short, forceful prying motion downward or outward
Discussing tools, construction, breaking and entering
Break It Down
Watch, build, and feel the movement
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How to form the sign
- Form G-hand, index finger extended rigid
- Position near non-dominant hand, chest/waist
- Perform short, forceful prying motion downward
- Or perform short, forceful prying motion outward
Coach prompt
Sign 'crowbar' and then 'open'
Signature details
Handshape
Dominant G-hand, index finger extended, rigid · Code G
Dominant hand
Right
Symmetry
Asymmetric
Contact
Near
Palm orientation
Palm inward or slightly down
Eyebrows
Neutral
Eye gaze
Forward
Head movement
None
Mouth morpheme
Pah or mm for effort
Body shift
Slight forward lean
Use It Today
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He used the crowbar to open the crate
Often implies forceful opening or destruction
Best fit: Discussing tools, construction, breaking and entering
Mirror focus
Sign 'crowbar' and then 'open'
Catch the slip
Ensure the G-hand is rigid and the prying motion is forceful and distinct
Use it today
He used the crowbar to open the crate
Common mistakes: Confusing with 'lever' or 'break' signs
When not to use it: When a more specific tool sign exists
Regional note: Minor variations in handshape or motion
Cultural note: Associated with construction, demolition, breaking in
1.[en] He grabbed the crowbar. / BSL:[GRAB CROWBAR]
2.[en] The door needed a crowbar. / BSL:[DOOR NEED CROWBAR]
3.[en] Use the crowbar to open it. / BSL:[USE CROWBAR OPEN IT]
What is the BSL sign for crowbar?
The BSL sign for crowbar uses a dominant G-hand (index finger extended and rigid) performing a short, forceful prying motion downward or outward, near the non-dominant hand at chest/waist level.
How do you sign crowbar in BSL?
To sign 'crowbar' in BSL, form a G-hand with your dominant hand (index finger extended and rigid). Place it near your non-dominant hand at chest/waist level, then make a short, forceful prying motion either downward or outward.
Is crowbar one-handed or two-handed in BSL?
The BSL sign for 'crowbar' is typically a one-handed sign, performed by the dominant hand. The non-dominant hand may or may not be present as a passive base, but it does not actively participate in the sign's movement.
What handshape is used for crowbar in BSL?
The BSL sign for 'crowbar' uses the G-handshape. This means the index finger is extended and held rigidly, while the other fingers are curled into the palm, often with the thumb resting alongside.
How does crowbar differ from similar signs in BSL?
The 'crowbar' sign specifically uses a rigid G-hand for a distinct prying action. It differs from a general 'tool' sign (often a 'T' handshape) or a 'break' sign (which might use a chopping or snapping motion). Its specific handshape and movement denote the tool's function.
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Word web
Pry bar
wrecking bar
Tool
lever
break
force
Tool
Lever
Break
Prying
Metal
Construction
The sign for 'crowbar' (dominant G-hand, forceful prying) is distinct. It differs from a general 'TOOL' sign, which often uses a 'T' handshape (index finger through thumb circle) moving forward. It's also different from 'LEVER', which might use a similar G-hand but with a sustained, upward/downward rocking motion, whereas 'crowbar' implies a more forceful, short, and often destructive pry. The 'BREAK' sign typically involves two hands or a chopping motion, not the specific G-hand prying action
Tool
construction
crime
leverage
Crowbar
pry bar
tool
lever
BSL
Construction
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