Difference Between ASL and BSL: What UK Learners Need to Know

Many people in the UK search "Is ASL the same as BSL?" or "Which sign language should I learn?" Many people in the UK search “Is ASL the same as BSL?” or “Which sign language should I learn?” It is crucial to understand the basic difference between ASL and BSL before you start. By the way, did you know there are over 150,000 BSL users in the UK alone? But how many sign languages are there in the world? You might be surprised by the answer. Actually, there are over 300 different ones!

First, we must define these two main languages clearly. ASL stands for American Sign Language. BSL stands for British Sign Language. Here is the core message you need to remember. They are completely different languages, not just dialects or accents.

In fact, they are as different as English is from Japanese. By the end of this blog, you will understand the difference. You will also know exactly which one to choose for life in the UK.

Why the Difference Between ASL and BSL Matters in the UK

The Deaf community in the UK uses BSL as their primary language. It is a vital part of life here. The language has a long history in Britain. However, it has only recently received full legal recognition. The UK government passed the BSL Act in 2022. Scotland also has its own BSL Act from 2015. This means BSL is now legally recognised as an official language here. Therefore, public services must provide access to it.

Why does confusion with ASL cause real communication problems? Imagine a Deaf person goes to a doctor in London. If the interpreter starts using American signs, the patient will be confused. They might misunderstand important medical advice. This creates dangerous access issues.

This distinction is relevant for many different people today. Hearing learners need to study the correct language for their region. Parents of Deaf children must ensure their child learns the local language. Furthermore, employers and teachers need to know which interpreter to hire.

Quick Overview – What Is a ASL and What Is BSL?

To understand the difference, we must look at each language closely.

What Is ASL (American Sign Language)?

ASL is used mainly in the USA and parts of Canada. You might see it in some international schools, too. What is an ASL user’s main influence? It actually comes from French Sign Language (LSF).

Long ago, American teachers went to France to learn sign language. They brought those French signs back to America. That is why ASL is not linked to British signing. It also uses a one-handed fingerspelling alphabet.

What Is BSL (British Sign Language)?

BSL is the indigenous sign language of the UK Deaf community. It evolved naturally here over hundreds of years. It belongs to the BANZSL language family. This includes British, Australian, and New Zealand Sign Language.

A key feature is the two-handed fingerspelling alphabet. We use both hands to spell out names and places. It is important to note that both are fully natural languages. They are not just "signed English" or mime.

ASL vs BSL at a Glance – Comparison Table

Here is a simple table to show the BSL vs ASL comparison.

Key Differences Between ASL and BSL

There are many factors regarding ASL vs BSL that learners must know.

History and Origins

There is a quite fascinating history of these languages. ASL has roots in French Sign Language and local US signs. A French teacher named Laurent Clerc helped start Deaf education in America. Therefore, ASL shares many signs with French Sign Language.

On the other hand, BSL has a separate British sign tradition. It developed independently on this island. Later, British people took this language to Australia and New Zealand. That is why British Sign Language vs ASL are not related. They grew up in totally different families.

Where Each Language Is Used

You must know where you can use each language. ASL is used in the USA and Anglophone Canada. It is also used in parts of West Africa and Asia. However, it is not used in the UK.

BSL is used in England, Scotland, and Wales. It is also used in parts of Northern Ireland alongside ISL. ISL stands for Irish Sign Language. We must clarify a common mistake. ASL is not the default sign language for all English-speaking countries.

Fingerspelling Alphabet and Numbers

The most obvious difference between BSL and ASL is the alphabet. ASL uses a one-handed alphabet. You form the letters A, B, and C with a single hand. You can hold a drink and spell at the same time.

In contrast, BSL uses a two-handed alphabet. You use your dominant hand to tap the other hand. For example, vowels are tapped on the fingertips. The number signs are also completely different. They are not interchangeable at all.

Grammar and Sentence Structure

Both languages are not "word-for-word English". You cannot just speak English and move your hands. ASL tends towards a topic–comment structure. This means you state the topic first, then the comment. It also uses specific time-topic-comment patterns.

BSL also uses different word orders. However, BSL makes heavy use of space and direction. You place concepts in the air around you. Tense, negation, and questions are handled differently between ASL and BSL. The difference in sign language grammar is clearly varied.

Vocabulary and Everyday Signs

Every day, words often look completely different. Signs for "family", "coffee", "thank you", and "yes/no" are not the same. In ASL, "family" uses distinct 'F' handshapes in a circle. In BSL, "family" is also a circular motion, but it looks different.

There is a lack of mutual intelligibility. This means knowing ASL won’t automatically let you understand BSL. It is like knowing French and trying to understand German.

Facial Expressions, Mouth Patterns and Use of Space

Both languages use facial expressions for grammar and tone. Your eyebrows tell people if you are asking a question.

However, there are differences in mouthing patterns. Some BSL varieties use mouthing that looks closer to English words. ASL has very specific mouth movements that are part of the grammar. Classifiers are handshapes that show size and shape. Both languages use them. But the specific shapes they use are different in sign language systems.

Deaf Culture in the US vs the UK

Culture is just as important as vocabulary. The US and UK have different schooling histories. The US has Gallaudet University, a famous Deaf university.

The UK has a strong history of Deaf Clubs. Different political movements and legislation happened here. Understanding local Deaf culture is essential if you live in the UK. This is why BSL is usually more relevant here.

Are ASL and BSL Similar at All?

You might wonder if they share any features. They do share a modality. This means they are visual–gestural languages. Both use the hands, face, and body to communicate.

Both languages have rich and complex grammar. They both use classifiers and spatial grammar. Also, both have regional accents and dialects. Someone from Manchester signs differently from someone from London. But emphasise this fact. Similarities do not make them mutually intelligible.

Which Sign Language Should You Learn if You Live in the UK?

For most people in the UK, BSL is the right starting point. It allows you to talk to people in your city. It helps you make friends in the local community. When might ASL make sense for you? It is useful if you work with US Deaf communities online. It is good if you plan to move to North America. Also, you might interpret for American clients based in the UK.

However, we have advice for specific groups. Parents of Deaf children should prioritise BSL access. This gives the child a language they can use at school. Professionals like teachers and NHS staff should also learn BSL. This helps you serve your customers and patients better.

Learning ASL vs BSL – Courses and Resources for UK Learners

BSL Learning Path in the UK

If you choose BSL, there is a clear path. The structure usually follows Level 1 to Level 6. Level 1 is for beginners. Level 6 is for fluent professionals. You can find classes at community colleges. There are also many Deaf-led organisations that teach. Online classes are available, but in-person is often better. You get to practise with real people.

Learning ASL from the UK

You can also learn ASL while living in the UK. There are many online platforms and video-based courses. However, you must consider time zones. If you get a live tutor, they might be in America. Finding Deaf ASL tutors is very important. Therefore, always prioritise learning from native signers for both languages.

Tips for Beginners

Here is a major tip for new learners. Don’t mix ASL and BSL signs at random. This makes your sentences very hard to understand. Focus on one language at first. Master the basics of BSL before looking at ASL. Finally, engage with Deaf communities respectfully. Visit Deaf clubs or online spaces to learn the culture.

Common Myths About the Difference Between ASL and BSL

There are many myths about different types sign language.

1. Myth 1: “Sign language is universal.”
2. This is false. There is no single universal sign language.
3. Myth 2: “ASL and BSL are just accents of the same language.”
4. No, they are totally separate languages with different origins.
5. Myth 3: “ASL is just English on the hands; BSL is simpler.”
6. Both are complex languages. Neither is just "English on the hands".
7. Myth 4: “If you know one sign language, you basically know them all.”
8. This is not true. You would have to study each one separately.

Conclusion – Choosing the Right Sign Language for Your Life in the UK

After all this long discussion, we hope you now know the major differences between ASL and BSL. Always bear in mind that they have different histories and grammars. BSL is the vital community language of the UK. ASL is useful for international contexts but not for daily UK life.

If you live in Britain, BSL is your best choice. It connects you with your local community. It respects the history of British Deaf people. Why not start today? Search for a local BSL course or a Deaf-led organisation. Learning even a little bit can make a huge difference.

FAQs About ASL and BSL (UK-Focused)

Is it better to learn ASL or BSL?

1. It depends on where you live or who you communicate with. ASL is used mainly in the US and Canada, and BSL in the UK.

Can BSL users understand ASL?

1. No. BSL and ASL are different languages with different grammar and vocabulary.

How does BSL differ from ASL?

1. BSL and ASL use different signs, grammar, and alphabet systems. ASL uses a one-handed alphabet; BSL uses two hands.

Why was BSL banned in the UK?

1. BSL wasn’t officially banned, but oralism policies in schools discouraged signing in favour of speech and lip-reading.

What are the top 3 hardest languages to learn?

1. Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, and Japanese are often considered the hardest for English speakers.

Does the UK use ASL or BSL?

1. The UK uses BSL.

What is the no. 1 easiest language to learn?

1. Spanish is usually considered the easiest for English speakers.

What are the 5 rules of ASL?

1. Use facial expressions
2. Follow proper handshape
3. Use correct palm orientation.
4. Maintain sign location
5. Use smooth, fluid movement.

What is the most useful 2nd language to learn?

1. It depends on your goals, but Spanish, French, and Mandarin are widely useful globally.