How to sign “Stop” in BSL
BSL and ASL are different languages — this is the British sign. See the ASL sign for “Stop” instead
Step by step
- Raise your dominant hand, palm facing outward, fingers together.
- Push it firmly forward toward the person or thing you want to stop.
- Keep your expression serious to match a 'halt' command.
Practice tip
BSL has no single all-purpose 'stop': this is the halt command. For 'stop an activity', BSL signs more like CEASE/FINISH.
Text-based guide researched from BSL-specific references (BSL SignBank, BDA-adjacent teaching materials and BSL dictionaries) and rewritten in original words. Signer-created photos and videos are a planned future upgrade. BSL has regional variation — this is the most widely taught form.