Understanding sign language – Key facts everyone should know

When we think about communication, we often default to speech and writing. But for millions of people, communication looks and feels very different. Sign language is a rich, visual language used by deaf people and those with hearing loss around the world. Yet it’s still widely misunderstood.

We believe understanding sign language is an important step towards greater inclusion and accessibility. This blog aims to introduce the key facts about sign language, clears up common myths and explains why it matters.

Sign language is a fully developed language that uses hand shapes, movements, facial expressions, body language and even lip patterns to communicate meaning. It has its own grammar, sentence structure and rules, just like spoken languages.

But did you know sign language isn’t universal? Different countries have different sign languages, shaped by their own cultures and histories. There are over 300 distinct sign languages used worldwide. Three of the most widely used are:

BSL and ASL are completely different languages, despite both countries speaking English! They have different vocabularies, grammar rules and fingerspelling systems.

Here in the UK, BSL is the first (or preferred language of over 150,000 people. Surprisingly, it was only officially recognised as a language by the UK government in 2003. It has its own grammar and syntax (the arrangement of words to form sentences), which differ significantly from spoken English. BSL is so much more than hand movements. It relies heavily on hand shapes and movement, facial expressions (these are often movements to signify grammar), body positioning and eye contact.  Because of this BSL is best understood as a visual language and not as a signed version of English.

Because of this, BSL is best understood as a visual language, not a signed version of English.

We’re going to bust some common myths about sign language.

“Sign language is just miming”

Not true. While some signs are visually descriptive, most are symbolic and learned, just like words in spoken languages.

“You just spell words using your hands”

Finger spelling exists, but it’s only a small part of sign language. It’s mainly used for names, places, or words without an established sign.

“All deaf people can lip read”

In reality, lip reading is extremely difficult. Even skilled lip readers may only understand a portion of what’s being said, especially without context.

Sign language is primarily used by deal or hard-of-hearing individuals. It’s also used by hearing people with deaf family members or friends, interpreters, teachers and in some cases people with communication difficulties such as cerebral palsy.

For many deaf people, sign language is not just a communication tool, it’s a core part of their identity and culture.

Deaf communities often share strong cultural ties, values and social norms. Sign language plays a central role in this culture. Understanding sign language helps hearing people engage more respectfully and confidently with deaf culture, rather than viewing deafness purely as a medical condition.

Learning sign language matters because it helps remove communication barriers and creates a more inclusive society for deaf people and those with hearing loss. It allows people to connect more directly, respectfully and confidently, rather than relying on assumptions and workarounds. As we’ve discussed, sign language is also deeply rooted in deaf culture and identity, so learning it shows understanding and respect – not just accommodation. Even basic knowledge can make everyday interactions easier, improve access to services and help deaf people feel seen, valued and included.

Sign language is increasingly visible across society. Increasingly, we see it on television, with BSL interpreters for news and other major events. It’s also used widely in education, from early years through to university. It’s used in healthcare and public services and online, through social media and video platforms.

Technology has helped expand access – with video relay serviced and online BSL learning resources making communication easier than ever.

At Fish, we believe inclusion starts with understanding. Learning about sign language helps break down misconceptions and creates space for better communication, better services and better support for everyone.

Whether you’re learning for work, family or simply personal interest, understanding the basics of sign language is a powerful way to help build a more inclusive and accessible world.