Can People Who Speak Different Languages Sign To Each Other

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

04-01-2025

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The short answer is: yes, but with limitations. While sign languages aren't universally understood like a single spoken language, there's a surprising degree of cross-cultural communication possible. The extent of this understanding, however, depends on several factors.

The Challenges of Cross-Cultural Sign Language

Sign languages, like spoken languages, are diverse and evolve independently within different cultures and communities. American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), and Japanese Sign Language (JSL), for example, are distinct languages with their own unique grammatical structures, vocabulary, and even handshapes. Trying to directly translate signs from one language to another often results in miscommunication.

Grammatical Differences

One major hurdle is the difference in grammatical structures. Sign languages often organize information in ways that differ significantly from spoken languages and from each other. What might be expressed as a subject-verb-object sentence in English could be conveyed using a completely different order in ASL or BSL. These structural variations can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

Lexical Differences

Even basic vocabulary can vary greatly. The sign for "cat" in ASL might not resemble the sign for "cat" in another sign language. While some signs might share visual similarities due to iconic representations (e.g., a sign for "tree" might involve an upward reaching motion), this is far from consistent across all sign languages.

Bridging the Communication Gap

Despite these challenges, some level of communication is possible between signers of different languages. Several strategies can facilitate understanding:

• Mime and Gestures: Using mime and universally understood gestures can help convey basic concepts even when the formal sign language differs. These are particularly helpful for conveying concrete ideas or emotions.

• Pidgins and Creoles: In situations where signers from different linguistic backgrounds regularly interact, a simplified form of communication – a sign language pidgin or creole – can emerge. This shared system may incorporate elements from multiple sign languages, offering a rudimentary means of communication.

• International Sign: While not a fully-fledged language, International Sign (IS) is a simplified system that uses some widely understood signs and gestures. It's often employed in international settings such as conferences or events where signers of different languages need to interact. However, it's not as expressive or nuanced as a full sign language.

Conclusion: Understanding Requires Effort

While perfect understanding between signers of different languages isn't automatic, effective communication is possible with creativity and understanding. A combination of mime, gestures, and perhaps elements of a shared pidgin or International Sign can overcome some of the barriers. The key is to recognize the inherent differences and adapt communication accordingly, emphasizing clear visual cues and a willingness to collaborate in finding mutual understanding.