Asl Sentence Structure

American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual-gestural language used by the Deaf community in the United States and English-speaking parts of Canada. It is a complete and natural language with its own grammar and syntax, distinct from spoken languages.

The sentence structure in ASL follows a specific pattern that is different from many spoken languages. Understanding the unique sentence structure of ASL is crucial for effective communication and accurate interpretation.

Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) Order

One of the key characteristics of ASL sentence structure is the use of the Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) word order. This means that the subject of the sentence is typically signed first, followed by the verb, and then the object. For example, in the sentence "I love chocolate," the subject "I" would be signed first, then the verb "love," and finally the object "chocolate."

The SVO order in ASL allows for a clear and logical flow of information. It helps establish the relationship between the subject and the action being performed, making it easier for the signer to convey their message effectively.

Subject Agreement

In ASL, the subject of a sentence is often indicated through the use of classifiers. Classifiers are handshapes and movements that represent specific objects, people, or concepts. For instance, to indicate the subject "I," a signer might use the "1" handshape (index finger extended) to represent themselves.

The choice of classifier depends on the context and the specific meaning intended. Classifiers add richness and detail to the sentence, allowing signers to convey additional information about the subject, such as their size, shape, or movement.

Verb Agreement

Verbs in ASL often agree with the subject in terms of number and person. This means that the verb form changes depending on whether the subject is singular or plural, and whether it refers to the first, second, or third person. For example, the verb "eat" would be signed differently for "I eat" versus "we eat."

Verb agreement helps convey the grammatical relationship between the subject and the action being described. It adds clarity and precision to the sentence structure, ensuring that the intended meaning is accurately conveyed.

Temporal and Spatial Information

ASL incorporates temporal and spatial information into its sentence structure to provide context and establish the setting of the sentence. This is achieved through the use of various non-manual signals, such as facial expressions, head movements, and eye gaze.

For instance, to indicate the past tense, a signer might use a downward head tilt or a furrowed brow. To indicate the future tense, they might use an upward head tilt or a raised eyebrow. These non-manual signals help convey the temporal aspect of the sentence and add nuance to the overall meaning.

Locative Information

ASL also incorporates locative information to indicate the location of the subject or object within the sentence. This is often done through the use of spatial referencing, where the signer establishes a visual reference point and then signs the sentence relative to that point.

For example, if the sentence is about a person sitting at a table, the signer might establish a visual reference point for the table and then sign the sentence in relation to that point. This helps the viewer understand the spatial relationship between the subject and the object, enhancing the clarity of the sentence.

Topicalization and Emphasis

ASL allows for topicalization, which is the practice of placing emphasis on a particular word or phrase within a sentence. This is often done to highlight important information or to create a specific rhetorical effect.

Topicalization can be achieved through various techniques, such as signing the emphasized word or phrase with greater intensity, using a different handshape or movement, or repeating the word multiple times. This technique adds emphasis and draws attention to the key elements of the sentence.

Facial Expressions and Emphasis

Facial expressions play a crucial role in emphasizing certain words or phrases in ASL. For example, a signer might use a raised eyebrow or an open-mouthed expression to emphasize a particular word or concept. These facial expressions add intensity and emphasis to the signed message, enhancing its impact.

Use of Classifiers and Descriptive Signs

ASL makes extensive use of classifiers and descriptive signs to provide detailed and vivid descriptions. Classifiers, as mentioned earlier, represent objects, people, or concepts through specific handshapes and movements. They allow signers to convey complex ideas and actions in a visually descriptive manner.

For instance, to describe a person walking, a signer might use a classifier handshape to represent the person's legs and then sign the action of walking by moving the handshape forward. This use of classifiers adds depth and visual imagery to the sentence, making it more engaging and expressive.

Descriptive Signs

In addition to classifiers, ASL utilizes descriptive signs to convey detailed information. These signs often involve intricate handshapes and movements that represent specific actions, emotions, or concepts. For example, the sign for "happy" might involve a smile and a specific handshape that conveys a sense of joy.

Descriptive signs add a layer of richness and nuance to the sentence structure, allowing signers to express complex ideas and emotions with precision and clarity.

Sentence Length and Complexity

ASL sentences can vary in length and complexity, depending on the context and the intended message. Some sentences may be short and concise, while others may be more elaborate and detailed.

Longer sentences in ASL often involve the use of various grammatical markers, such as conjunctions, prepositions, and adverbs, to connect ideas and provide additional information. These markers help signers construct complex sentences and convey nuanced meanings.

Sentence Expansion and Elaboration

ASL signers have the flexibility to expand and elaborate on sentences to provide additional context or details. This can be done through the use of descriptive signs, classifiers, and non-manual signals. By adding these elements, signers can enhance the clarity and depth of their communication.

Conclusion

The sentence structure in ASL is a unique and fascinating aspect of the language. With its Subject-Verb-Object order, use of classifiers and descriptive signs, and incorporation of temporal and spatial information, ASL allows for expressive and nuanced communication. Understanding the sentence structure of ASL is essential for effective sign language interpretation and for fostering inclusive communication within the Deaf community.