Sign language is a vital means of communication for the deaf and hard of hearing community, and it's essential to recognize that sign languages are not universal and vary across languages. Just like spoken languages, sign languages have their own grammar, vocabulary, and syntax, which are shaped by the culture and language of the community that uses them. In this article, we'll explore five ways sign language varies across languages.
1. Vocabulary and Lexicon
One of the most significant ways sign language varies across languages is in its vocabulary and lexicon. Just as spoken languages have their unique words and phrases, sign languages have their own distinct signs and gestures. For example, the sign for "hello" in American Sign Language (ASL) is different from the sign for "hello" in British Sign Language (BSL). Similarly, the sign for "food" in ASL is different from the sign for "food" in Auslan (Australian Sign Language).
Vocabulary Differences in Sign Languages
- ASL: "Hello" is signed by waving the dominant hand with the palm facing outward and the fingers extended.
- BSL: "Hello" is signed by holding the dominant hand up with the palm facing forward and the fingers together.
- Auslan: "Food" is signed by mimicking the action of eating with the dominant hand.
2. Grammar and Sentence Structure
Sign languages also vary in their grammar and sentence structure. Just as spoken languages have their own grammatical rules, sign languages have their own rules for constructing sentences and expressing meaning. For example, in ASL, the typical sentence structure is Subject-Object-Verb (SOV), whereas in BSL, the typical sentence structure is Subject-Verb-Object (SVO).
Grammatical Differences in Sign Languages
- ASL: The sentence "I love you" is signed as "I" (pointing to the chest) + "love" ( crossing the arms over the chest) + "you" (pointing to the recipient).
- BSL: The sentence "I love you" is signed as "I" (pointing to the chest) + "you" (pointing to the recipient) + "love" (making a heart shape with the hands).
3. Non-Manual Markers
Non-manual markers (NMMs) are facial expressions, head movements, and body language that convey meaning in sign languages. NMMs vary across sign languages, and their use can change the meaning of a sign or sentence. For example, in ASL, raising an eyebrow can indicate a question, whereas in BSL, raising an eyebrow can indicate surprise.
Non-Manual Marker Differences in Sign Languages
- ASL: Raising an eyebrow can indicate a question, such as "Are you going to the store?"
- BSL: Raising an eyebrow can indicate surprise, such as "I didn't know that!"
4. Fingerspelling
Fingerspelling is a technique used in sign languages to spell out words using handshapes and finger positions. Fingerspelling systems vary across sign languages, and some languages use different systems for different types of words. For example, ASL uses a one-handed manual alphabet for fingerspelling, whereas BSL uses a two-handed manual alphabet.
Fingerspelling Differences in Sign Languages
- ASL: The one-handed manual alphabet is used for fingerspelling, with each letter having a unique handshape and finger position.
- BSL: The two-handed manual alphabet is used for fingerspelling, with each letter having a unique combination of handshapes and finger positions.
5. Iconicity and Arbitrariness
Sign languages also vary in their level of iconicity and arbitrariness. Iconicity refers to the degree to which a sign resembles the thing it represents, whereas arbitrariness refers to the degree to which a sign is unrelated to the thing it represents. Some sign languages, such as ASL, have a high level of iconicity, whereas others, such as BSL, have a higher level of arbitrariness.
Iconicity and Arbitrariness in Sign Languages
- ASL: Many signs are iconic, such as the sign for "drink" which mimics the action of drinking from a cup.
- BSL: Many signs are arbitrary, such as the sign for "London" which is a unique combination of handshapes and finger positions.
In conclusion, sign language varies across languages in many ways, including vocabulary, grammar, non-manual markers, fingerspelling, and iconicity. Understanding these differences is essential for effective communication and appreciation of the diversity of sign languages.
What is sign language?
+Sign language is a visual language that uses handshapes, facial expressions, and body language to communicate.
How many sign languages are there?
+There are many sign languages, each with its own unique grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. Some examples include American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), and Auslan (Australian Sign Language).
Is sign language universal?
+No, sign language is not universal. While some signs may be similar across languages, each sign language has its own unique characteristics and is not mutually intelligible with other sign languages.