Understanding Between Different Sign Languages: Barriers and Bridges

Sign languages, much like their spoken counterparts, form a set of unique and diverse communication systems used by the deaf community worldwide. A recent BBC radio programme highlighted the distinct differences between British Sign Language (BSL) and American Sign Language (ASL), as well as other World Sign Languages (WSL). This revelation sparked curiosity about how sign language users from different linguistic backgrounds understand each other.

Unfortunately, cross-linguistic understanding among different sign language users often mirrors the communication barrier faced by monolingual speakers from vastly different linguistic backgrounds. For instance, a monolingual English speaker might struggle to understand Icelandic, a language from a different language family and with a completely different vocabulary structure. Similarly, sign language users from different language families may face similar challenges.

Similarities Across Sign Languages

Despite these inherent barriers, there are some languages and dialects that share more in common than others. For example, French Sign Language (LSF) and Langue de Signes Québécoise (LSQ) are closely related and can be somewhat intercomprehensible with the aid of written translations. An individual fluent in one might be able to understand the gist of the other, though resources comparing these languages are limited.

Other sign languages, like BSL and ASL, have significant differences, making understanding more challenging. However, sign language users often find common ground through basic expressions and gesturing. For instance, if two sign language users from different linguistic backgrounds meet, they might use simplified signs and facial expressions to communicate. Additionally, international sign language can be utilized as a bridge to assist in basic communication.

Language Families in Sign Languages

Sign languages, like spoken languages, fall into distinct families. American Sign Language (ASL), French Sign Language (LSF), and German Sign Language can be traced back to a common ancestor, making them a family of related sign languages. This relationship allows for a certain level of understanding between speakers of these languages when they encounter each other in the wild. People who are fluent in ASL, for example, might be able to communicate somewhat with deaf people in France or Germany, provided the situation is not too complex.

In contrast, languages from different families, such as BSL and ASL, have significant differences. As a BSL user, I find it difficult to understand ASL unless there are resources available or I can request clarification from the ASL user with whom I interact. Facial expressions, body language, and gestures specific to each language hold unique meanings and can pose significant barriers to understanding.

Facilitating Better Understanding

The ability to understand a different sign language largely depends on the degree of relatedness between the languages in question. Just as Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian speakers can often communicate to some extent due to their shared linguistic roots, ASL users might find it easier to communicate with LSF speakers, as there are many cognates and shared expressions.

However, if a BSL user travels to England, they might find it almost impossible to communicate with deaf people who use English Sign Language (ESL), as these language families are not related at all. Similarly, ASL users who travel to France or Germany may face challenges unless both parties are familiar with international sign language or have taken the time to learn basic phrases in the local sign language.

To improve cross-linguistic understanding, there is a need for more standardized resources and communities that can facilitate communication between sign language users from different linguistic backgrounds. Initiatives like sign language translation services, online communities, and language exchange programs can go a long way in bridging the gap between different sign language users.