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Sunday, December 14, 2025
Sign of the Day
nail
This BSL sign for 'nail' (fingernail/toenail) is two-handed. The dominant index finger taps the tip of the non-dominant index finger, mimicking pointing to a nail
A1 Common Noun British Sign Language (BSL) Neutral
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Dominant hand: index finger extended, thumb touches middle finger side. Non-dominant hand: index finger extended
Dominant G-hand taps non-dominant index fingertip
Discussing body parts, manicure, injury
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 an extended index finger with your non-dominant hand
- Extend your dominant index finger, thumb touching side of middle finger
- Tap the tip of your non-dominant index finger with dominant fingertip
- Repeat the tapping motion once or twice
Coach prompt
Practice forming the index finger handshape and tapping accurately. Focus on precise contact
Signature details
Handshape
Dominant hand: index finger extended, thumb touches middle finger side. Non-dominant hand: index finger extended · Code G
Dominant hand
Right
Symmetry
Asymmetric
Contact
Tap
Palm orientation
Dominant: palm towards non-dominant hand. Non-dominant: palm facing signer or slightly up
Eyebrows
Neutral
Eye gaze
At referent
Head movement
None
Mouth morpheme
Mouth 'nail'
Body shift
None
Use It Today
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.
My nail broke
This sign specifically refers to the fingernail or toenail
Best fit: Discussing body parts, manicure, injury
Mirror focus
Practice forming the index finger handshape and tapping accurately. Focus on precise contact
Catch the slip
Ensure the dominant hand *taps* the non-dominant fingertip, not just points or touches lightly. Maintain clear handshapes
Use it today
My nail broke
Common mistakes: Confusing with signs for 'finger' or 'point.'
When not to use it: If referring to a metal nail, use a different sign (e.g., hammering)
Regional note: Some minor variations may exist, but core concept is similar
Cultural note: N/A
1.[en] My nail broke. / BSL:[Sign NAIL, then BREAK]
2.[en] She paints her nails. / BSL:[Sign SHE, then PAINT, then NAIL]
3.[en] Look at your nails! / BSL:[Sign LOOK-AT, then YOUR, then NAIL]
What is the BSL sign for nail?
The BSL sign for 'nail' refers to a fingernail or toenail. It's a two-handed sign where the dominant index finger taps the tip of the non-dominant index finger.
How do you sign nail in BSL?
Extend your non-dominant index finger. With your dominant hand, extend your index finger (thumb touching middle finger side) and repeatedly tap its tip against the tip of your non-dominant index finger.
Is nail one-handed or two-handed in BSL?
The sign for 'nail' (fingernail/toenail) in BSL is a two-handed sign, involving interaction between both hands.
What handshape is used for nail in BSL?
Both hands use an extended index finger handshape. The dominant hand's thumb usually rests against the side of the middle finger.
How does nail differ from similar signs in BSL?
It differs from 'finger' (often wiggling an index finger) by explicitly tapping the fingertip. It differs from 'point' (single, sustained point) by its repeated tapping motion and specific location on the non-dominant finger.
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Word web
fingernail
toenail
finger
toe
cuticle
polish
clip
finger
toe
hand
manicure
broken
FINGER: The sign for 'FINGER' (general term) typically involves just the dominant hand's index finger wiggling or moving in a small circular motion, without the specific tapping action or location.
POINT: The sign for 'POINT' usually involves extending the dominant index finger towards an object or direction, often with a sustained hold rather than a repeated tap. The location is not fixed on the other hand.
TOENAIL: While identical in handshape and movement, 'TOENAIL' would typically be signed lower, near the foot, often with a non-manual mouth pattern for 'toe' or 'foot'
Body part
hygiene
beauty
BSL nail
sign for nail
fingernail BSL
toenail BSL
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