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Thursday, November 13, 2025
Sign of the Day
safety
The sign for "safety" in BSL uses a dominant S-hand (fist) starting near the non-dominant forearm. It moves firmly forward and slightly down into neutral space. This firm, protective movement conveys the concept of security and protection
A2 Common Noun British Sign Language (BSL) Neutral
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Dominant S-hand (fist), thumb across fingers
Moves firmly forward and slightly down
Discussing well-being, rules, protective measures, or security
Break It Down
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 firm S-hand (fist)
- Position dominant S-hand near non-dominant forearm
- Move hand firmly forward and slightly down
- Maintain firm handshape throughout
Coach prompt
Practice the firm S-hand. Focus on the forward, slightly downward movement from the forearm
Signature details
Handshape
Dominant S-hand (fist), thumb across fingers · Code S
Dominant hand
Either
Symmetry
Asymmetric
Contact
Near
Palm orientation
Palm faces non-dominant side, then forward
Eyebrows
Neutral
Eye gaze
Forward
Head movement
None
Mouth morpheme
pah
Body shift
None
Use It Today
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We need to ensure everyone's safety here
The firm movement conveys seriousness and importance
Best fit: Discussing well-being, rules, protective measures, or security
Mirror focus
Practice the firm S-hand. Focus on the forward, slightly downward movement from the forearm
Catch the slip
Ensure the S-hand is firm. Start near the non-dominant forearm, not the chest
Use it today
We need to ensure everyone's safety here
Common mistakes: Not forming a firm S-hand; incorrect starting location; weak movement
When not to use it: When referring to physical security systems (use 'security' sign)
Regional note: Minor variations in exact location or movement range
Cultural note: Safety is a universal concept; BSL sign emphasizes firm protection
1.[en] We need to talk about safety. / BSL:[WE NEED DISCUSS SAFETY]
2.[en] Your safety is important. / BSL:[YOUR SAFETY IMPORTANT]
3.[en] Is it safe? / BSL:[IT SAFE QUESTION]
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Word web
Security
protection
safeguard
Danger
risk
Secure
protect
safe
Protect
Secure
Danger
Well-being
Risk
PROTECT: Often uses B-hands or similar, shielding/covering movement, may be two-handed. "Safety" uses a firm S-hand, a singular linear movement.
SECURE: Can be similar to "safety" but may involve a firm closure or linking motion, often two-handed. "Safety" is distinctly one-handed, focusing on firm forward assertion.
DANGER: Often contrasts "safety" visually with a sharp, angular, or grabbing movement, often with an open handshape
Well-being
protection
security
rules
Safety BSL
safe sign language
security BSL
Security
well-being
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