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Many people think sign language is the same everywhere. However, that is not true at all. The difference between ASL and BSL is actually huge. These two languages have unique histories and rules.
If you live in the UK, this matters. You need to learn the right one to communicate. Let’s explore why these two languages are so unique. We will make it easy to understand for everyone.
Why do people confuse ASL and BSL?
It is easy to get confused about these languages. Both languages have the word “Sign” in their names. Also, both America and Britain use English as the main spoken language.
Therefore, people assume the sign languages are similar. However, ASL and BSL differ in the same way that English and German do. They are totally distinct languages. You cannot use one to understand the other.
Why this matters for learners and professionals in the UK
If you move to the UK, you might want to learn new skills. Learning sign language is a great choice. It helps you make new friends.
However, picking the wrong one causes problems. You might learn American signs online by mistake. Then, British Deaf people will not understand you. Knowing the correct language helps you get jobs, too.
What readers will learn
In this guide, we will explain everything clearly. You will learn about the history of both languages. We will look at their different alphabets.
We will also check their grammar rules. By the end, you will know exactly which one to pick. Let’s explore the fascinating world of sign language.
Why Do People Ask About the Difference Between ASL and BSL?
Are American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) the same?
The short answer is no. They are definitely not the same. In fact, they belong to different language families. ASL is used mostly in the USA and Canada. On the other hand, BSL is used in the UK. They share less than 31% of the same signs. This is a very small amount.
For example, the sign for “Mother” is different. In ASL, you tap your chin with an open hand. In BSL, you tap your palm with two fingers. These small differences add up quickly.
Why Do They Have Different Names If Both Are Used In English-Speaking Countries?
Spoken English is similar in both countries. We share many words like “cat” or “house”. However, sign languages did not develop from spoken English. Sign languages developed naturally within Deaf communities. The Deaf community in America was separate from Britain. Therefore, they created their own unique signs.
The names simply reflect the country of origin. ASL stands for American Sign Language. BSL stands for British Sign Language. The difference between American Sign Language and British Sign Language starts with their geography.
Which sign language is used in the UK?
If you are in London or Manchester, you see BSL. BSL is the main language of the British Deaf community. It has been used here for hundreds of years.
You might see ASL in American movies. Sometimes, YouTube videos use ASL too. But in daily British life, BSL is the standard.
What Is the Difference Between ASL and BSL in Origins and History?
Where did ASL originate?
The history of ASL is quite interesting. It did not come from Britain. Instead, it came from France in the early 1800s.
A man named Thomas Gallaudet went to Europe. He wanted to learn how to teach Deaf children. First, he visited England to learn their methods. However, the British schools were very secretive. They did not want to share their methods. So, Gallaudet went to France instead.
There, he met a teacher named Laurent Clerc. Clerc taught French Sign Language (LSF). Gallaudet brought Clerc back to America. Consequently, ASL is a mix of French signs and home signs. This is a major distinction between ASL and BSL. ASL is related to French Sign Language.
How did BSL develop in the UK?
BSL has a much older history in Britain. Records show sign language use here in the 1500s. It developed organically in cities and villages across the UK. Thomas Braidwood opened the first Deaf school in Britain. This happened in the late 1700s in Edinburgh. His school helped standardise the language.
Over time, dialects merged into modern BSL. Because it stayed in Britain, it remained unique. It did not take influence from the French system.
Why is ASL influenced by French Sign Language?
As mentioned, the first teacher in America was French. Laurent Clerc used his own language to teach. His students combined his French signs with their own.
This created a new language mixture. Even today, ASL and French Sign Language are similar. They share about 60% of their signs. It also explains why ASL is so different from BSL. The roots of ASL are European, not British. It is a surprising fact for many people.
How has BSL evolved within British Deaf communities?
BSL changed a lot over the centuries. In the past, many regions had different signs. A sign in Scotland might differ from one in London. However, television and travel helped fix this. Now, most signs are understood everywhere in the UK. But regional accents still exist.
For instance, numbers are signed differently in some cities. The Manchester dialect is famous for being unique. Yet, the core grammar remains the same.
Do ASL and BSL Use the Same Hand Alphabet?
What does the ASL one-handed alphabet look like?
One major difference between ASL and BSL is the alphabet. ASL uses a one-handed manual alphabet. You only need your dominant hand to spell.
Hence, you hold your hand in front of your shoulder. You form shapes for A, B, C, and so on. It is very convenient for multitasking. You can hold a cup and spell at the same time. This system is also used in France and Ireland. It feels very fast and fluid.
Why does BSL use a two-handed alphabet?
In contrast, BSL uses both hands. Your dominant hand acts like a pen. Your non-dominant hand acts like a piece of paper.
For example, to sign ‘A’, you touch your thumb. To sign ‘E’, you touch your index finger. The vowels are located on your fingertips. This system feels very solid and visual. It requires both hands to be free. You cannot hold a phone while spelling in BSL.
Are fingerspelling and other forms of spelling interchangeable?
No, you cannot swap them. An ASL user cannot read BSL fingerspelling easily. The shapes look completely different.
If you spell your name in ASL to a Brit, they will be confused. They might guess some letters, but not all. You must learn the correct alphabet for the country.
Visual examples of the letters
- Letter A: In ASL, it is a closed fist. In BSL, you touch your thumb tip.
- Letter C: In ASL, one hand curves like a C. In BSL, both hands curve together.
- For Letter M: In ASL, three fingers fold over the thumb. In BSL, you place three fingers on your palm.
How Different Are ASL and BSL Grammar Rules?
Do ASL and BSL follow English grammar?
This is a very common question. People think sign language follows spoken English words. However, this is not true for either language. Both ASL and BSL have their own grammar. They do not use words like “is”, “are”, or “the”. They focus on the main point of the sentence.
For example, in English, we say, “I am going to the shop.” In BSL, you might sign “Shop me go”. The order is much more efficient.
How does sentence structure vary between ASL and BSL?
The difference between ASL and BSL grammar is subtle but real. Both use a “Topic-Comment” structure. This means you state the topic first. However, the specific order of signs varies. BSL often puts the question word at the end. For example, “What is your name?” becomes “Name you what?”
ASL can also do this, but uses different linking signs. Getting the order wrong can change the meaning. It is like mixing up words in a sentence.
Are facial expressions used differently in each language?
Facial expressions are essential grammar. They are not just for showing emotions. They tell you if a sentence is a question.
In BSL, lip patterns are very important. Many BSL signs are accompanied by mouthing the English word. This helps clarify the meaning of the sign.
In ASL, mouthing English is less common. ASL relies more on specific mouth movements that are not words. This is a key stylistic difference.
Can ASL Users Understand BSL Users?
Are the signs visually similar?
Some signs look a little bit similar. Simple actions like “drink” or “eat” are iconic. They look like the action they describe. However, abstract concepts are very different. Signs for “think”, “hope”, or “work” look nothing alike. This makes visual guessing very difficult.
If you watch a conversation, it looks different. BSL looks more expansive and uses two hands often. ASL uses more one-handed signs near the face.
How much mutual understanding exists?
Experts say the understanding is about 30%. This is not enough to hold a conversation. It is like an English speaker listening to Swedish. You might catch a word here and there. But you will miss the main details. Misunderstandings happen very easily between the two groups.
This proves the difference between ASL and BSL is significant. They are foreign languages to each other.
Would an ASL user need to relearn BSL from scratch?
Yes, they would need to start over. They have a head start on facial expressions. They also understand how visual languages work generally. However, they must learn new vocabulary. They must learn the two-handed alphabet. They must learn the specific BSL grammar rules.
It takes time and practice. It is not an instant switch.
Why Are ASL and BSL So Different?
Historical development
As we discussed, history played a huge role. The Atlantic Ocean separated the two communities. There was no internet or video calls back then. Therefore, the languages grew apart completely. The British schools were very strict about their methods. They did not interact with the American teachers.
This isolation allowed BSL to stay unique. It is a member of the BANZSL family. This includes British, Australian, and New Zealand Sign Language.
Cultural and linguistic evolution
Culture shapes language deeply. The way British people interact influenced BSL. The humour and slang of the UK are in the signs. The same is true for ASL. American culture influenced how ASL developed. The struggle for Deaf rights in America shaped their language.
These cultural elements are embedded in the signs. You cannot separate the language from the culture.
Influence of local communities
In the UK, local Deaf clubs were important. People met there to talk and socialise. These clubs kept the language strong and pure.
They prevented outside influences from changing BSL. This is why the difference between ASL and BSL remains strong today. The community protected their heritage.
Which Sign Language Is Used in the UK?
Is BSL the official sign language of the UK?
Yes, BSL is the main language. It is the preferred language of the Deaf community here. If you want to communicate in Britain, pick BSL. It is used in schools and hospitals. Also, used on television programmes. After all, it is the language of daily life.
Is ASL recognised or commonly used in Britain?
ASL is not an official language here. You cannot use it to request an interpreter. Government services do not typically provide ASL support.
However, some people learn it for fun. Some university students might study it. But it is not useful for daily life in the UK. If you use ASL in a UK shop, nobody will understand. It is like speaking German in a London bakery.
Should UK learners choose BSL or ASL?
If you live here, choose BSL. It connects you with your local community. It allows you to volunteer and help people nearby. Learning BSL helps you understand British culture. It makes you part of the society here. Learning ASL in the UK is very isolating.
You would have nobody to practise with. Language requires partners to practise effectively.
Is BSL Recognised as an Official Language in the UK?
What does UK law say about BSL?
This is a very exciting topic. For a long time, BSL was not official. But things changed recently with a new law.
The BSL Act was passed in 2022. This law recognises BSL as a language of England, Scotland, and Wales. It was a huge victory for equality. It means the government must promote BSL. They must make sure public services are accessible.
Why is BSL important for accessibility and inclusion?
Inclusion means everyone can participate. BSL allows Deaf people to participate fully. They can go to the doctor and be understood. They can attend school and learn effectively. Without BSL, Deaf people face big barriers. They feel left out of society.
Recognising the language removes these barriers. It shows respect for Deaf people. It validates their identity and culture.
How many people use BSL in the UK?
It is hard to count exactly. However, estimates suggest around 150,000 people use BSL. About 87,000 are Deaf people who use it as their first language. Many hearing people learn it too. Family members and interpreters use it daily. The number of learners is growing every year.
This large number highlights the difference between ASL and BSL usage here. BSL is vibrant and alive in the UK.
Should You Learn ASL or BSL?
What are your learning goals?
To decide, ask yourself some questions. Where do you want to live? Who do you want to talk to? If you plan to stay in the UK, learn BSL. It is the most practical choice. You will find classes easily.
Therefore, if you want to work in the USA, learn ASL. It depends entirely on your plans.
Are you based in the UK or planning to move abroad?
For immigrants in the UK, BSL is best. It helps you integrate into your new home. It is a great skill for your CV.
If you are just visiting the UK, BSL is still polite. Even learning a few signs helps. It shows you care about the local people.
Which courses and qualifications are available in the UK?
The UK has a great education system for BSL. An organisation called Signature offers courses. You can take Level 1, Level 2, and higher. You can find classes at local colleges. There are also private tutors available. Some community centres offer free taster sessions.
These qualifications are recognised by employers. They prove you have a real skill. ASL qualifications are much harder to find here.
- Basic conversation skills: Level 1
- Longer conversations and grammar: Level 2
- Professional standard: Level 3
- Fluent interpreter standard: Level 6
Final Thoughts: Understanding the Difference Between ASL and BSL
We have seen that the differences between ASL and BSL are significant due to their respective histories. Therefore, confusing them causes awkward moments. Understanding these distinct languages shows respect for Deaf culture and saves you time.
By choosing BSL in the UK, you actively support inclusion. Besides, you help build bridges between communities daily. Now you know the facts, so you can confidently begin your learning journey today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it better to learn ASL or BSL?
- It depends on where you live, as BSL is used in the UK while ASL is mainly used in the United States.
2. Can a BSL user understand ASL?
- No, ASL and BSL are different languages with different signs and grammar.
3. Is BSL a dying language?
- No, BSL is actively used and recognised, though it has a smaller user base than spoken languages.
4. Why are ASL and BSL so different?
- They developed separately with different linguistic influences and histories.
5. Does the UK use ASL or BSL?
- The UK primarily uses British Sign Language (BSL).
6. What are the top 3 hardest languages to learn?
- Languages often considered hardest include Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, and Japanese.