How to sign “What” in BSL
BSL and ASL are different languages — this is the British sign. See the ASL sign for “What” instead
Step by step
- Hold your dominant index finger up in front of your body.
- Wiggle your hand in short side-to-side movements.
- Keep a questioning expression on your face while you sign.
Practice tip
The facial expression is part of the sign — raise your eyebrows to mark it as a question.
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.