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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Bisexual"

To sign "bisexual", you will use a quick fingerspelled abbreviation. Raise your dominant hand to about shoulder height with your palm facing forward. First, form the ASL letter "B" by extending your four fingers straight up and tucking your thumb across your palm. Then, smoothly transition into the letter "I" by folding your index, middle, and ring fingers down while extending your pinky straight up. Keep your hand steady in one place as you make this fluid "B-I" motion.

Examples Using "Bisexual" in a Sentence

1

He came out as bisexual.

To sign this, point to the person for "he", then use the sign for "come out" by having your dominant hand emerge from behind your non-dominant hand. Finally, smoothly fingerspell "B-I" to represent "bisexual".

2

She is a proud bisexual woman.

Start by pointing for "she", then sign "proud" by drawing your thumb up your chest. Next, fingerspell the abbreviation "B-I" for "bisexual", and conclude with the sign for "woman" by tapping your thumb from your chin down to your chest.

3

The bisexual community is very supportive.

Begin by fingerspelling "B-I" for "bisexual". Then sign "community" by forming "C" handshapes with both hands and rotating them in a circle. Finish by signing "supportive", using your dominant hand to push up under your non-dominant fist.

How to Sign "Bisexual"
To sign "bisexual", you will use a quick fingerspelled abbreviation. Raise your dominant hand to about shoulder height with your palm facing forward. First, form the ASL letter "B" by extending your four fingers straight up and tucking your thumb across your palm. Then, smoothly transition into the letter "I" by folding your index, middle, and ring fingers down while extending your pinky straight up. Keep your hand steady in one place as you make this fluid "B-I" motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a lexicalized fingerspelling, meaning it is an abbreviation that has become the standard sign for the concept. By taking the first two letters of "bisexual" (B-I), it provides a quick, widely recognized shorthand within the Deaf LGBTQ+ community.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling short abbreviations like "B-I", it is best to keep your hand in a comfortable, stationary position near your shoulder. Focus on the fluidity of the finger movement rather than moving your arm. A smooth, in-place transition from the "B" handshape directly to the "I" handshape looks the most natural and fluent.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is bouncing or pushing their hand forward between the "B" and the "I". In ASL, when fingerspelling a short abbreviation, your wrist and arm should stay relatively still while only your fingers move to change the shape.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Bisexual" in a Sentence
1

He came out as bisexual.

To sign this, point to the person for "he", then use the sign for "come out" by having your dominant hand emerge from behind your non-dominant hand. Finally, smoothly fingerspell "B-I" to represent "bisexual".

2

She is a proud bisexual woman.

Start by pointing for "she", then sign "proud" by drawing your thumb up your chest. Next, fingerspell the abbreviation "B-I" for "bisexual", and conclude with the sign for "woman" by tapping your thumb from your chin down to your chest.

3

The bisexual community is very supportive.

Begin by fingerspelling "B-I" for "bisexual". Then sign "community" by forming "C" handshapes with both hands and rotating them in a circle. Finish by signing "supportive", using your dominant hand to push up under your non-dominant fist.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a unique sign for bisexual, or is it always fingerspelled?

The most universally accepted way to sign "bisexual" in ASL is by fingerspelling the abbreviation "B-I". While some minor regional variations might exist, "B-I" functions as the standard sign and is understood everywhere.

Do I need to move my hand when switching from B to I?

No, you should keep your hand in the same location. Just change the handshape smoothly from "B" to "I" without bouncing your wrist or pushing your arm forward. Keeping it steady looks much more natural.

Can I just fingerspell the entire word instead?

You certainly can fingerspell the full word "b-i-s-e-x-u-a-l" if you need to be extremely clear or are introducing the term. However, for everyday conversation, the "B-I" abbreviation is much faster and is the preferred method among fluent signers.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!