Is Sign Language the Same in All Languages?

Different Sign Languages Around the World

There are many different sign languages, each with its own rules, vocabulary, and grammar. These sign languages develop naturally within Deaf communities, just as spoken languages develop in hearing communities.

Here are some examples:

Each of these sign languages has its own unique signs, rules, and even cultural nuances.

Why Are There Different Sign Languages?

Sign languages evolve in Deaf communities, and these communities are often influenced by their surrounding spoken language and culture. For instance, ASL (American Sign Language) and BSL (British Sign Language) are quite different, even though both countries primarily speak English. The reason is that ASL is historically influenced by French Sign Language, while BSL developed independently in the UK.

Grammar and Structure

Just like spoken languages, sign languages have their own grammar. For example, in ASL, the sentence structure often follows a "topic-comment" order, which is different from the Subject-Verb-Object order typical in English.

➡️ Example:

English: "I am going to the store."

ASL: "Store I go."

This difference in structure highlights that sign languages are not just signed versions of spoken languages; they are complete, natural languages in their own right.

Common Misconceptions

⭐ Sign language is universal:

As mentioned earlier, this is not true. Each country or region has its own sign language, and they can be as different from each other as spoken languages.

⭐ Sign language is based on spoken language:

While there are influences, sign languages are not simply visual representations of spoken languages. They have their own grammar and rules.

⭐ All Deaf people use the same sign language:

Deaf people in different countries use different sign languages. Even within the same country, there can be regional variations.

Everyday Use

Understanding that sign languages are not universal is important, especially if you’re learning sign language or communicating with Deaf individuals from different regions. If you travel to another country, learning a few basic signs in that country’s sign language can be very helpful and respectful.

FAQ

Is American Sign Language (ASL) the same as British Sign Language (BSL)?

No, ASL and BSL are quite different and have unique signs and grammar.

Can someone who knows ASL understand someone who uses French Sign Language (LSF)?

Not easily. While there might be some similarities, the two are distinct languages.

Why are there so many sign languages?

Sign languages develop naturally in Deaf communities, influenced by culture, history, and the surrounding spoken language.

Is it possible to create a universal sign language?

While there have been efforts to create a universal sign language, such as Gestuno, it hasn’t been widely adopted because natural sign languages are deeply rooted in their cultural contexts.

Can sign languages be written down?

Some sign languages have written forms, but most rely on visual and spatial expression. There are systems, like SignWriting, that attempt to write down sign languages, but they are not commonly used.