Is Sign Language Universal?

When you start learning sign language, it's natural to wonder exactly where it can be used. 

Can you use it where you live, or is it commonly used in other countries? Is sign language universal? The short answer is no. 

Many people think that sign language is the same everywhere, but this is not true. Just like spoken languages, there are different sign languages around the world.

There are more than 300 different sign languages worldwide.

Each country or region has its own sign language with unique signs and rules. The same applies to American Sign Language (ASL). 

If you want to know more about this topic, keep reading. 

Is Sign Language a Universal Language?

There is no universal sign language. 

Just as spoken languages differ from country to country, sign languages also vary across the globe. 

For instance, American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) are distinct sign languages.

It doesn't matter that both are used in English-speaking countries. They have different signs and grammar rules. 

There are over 300 different sign languages in use around the world today. 

This number includes national sign languages, regional dialects, and various other forms of sign communication. 

Each language has its own unique vocabulary, grammar, and cultural nuances.

The most used sign languages include:

• American Sign Language 
• Indian Sign Language
• Indonesian Sign Language
• Russian Sign Language
• Brazilian Sign Language
• Spanish Sign Language
• Egyptian Sign Language

Even though they are similar, each version of sign language is their own independent language. 

These differences lie in the cultural and historical development of each sign language. 

Communities around the world have developed their own sign languages independently. This has led to a rich diversity of visual languages. 

These languages are shaped by the people who use them, their local culture, and the environment in which they live.

Is ASL a Universal Language?

ASL is primarily used in the United States and Canada. 

It's one of the most recognized and studied sign languages globally. But it's not a universal sign language.

As we said before, every region of the world has its own unique sign language. 

However, ASL is one of the most widely used sign languages in the world. 

Approximately 250,000 to 500,000 Americans use ASL.

But ASL isn't only used in the US. It's actually used all over the world, including in other English-speaking countries. 

It's even used in parts of West Africa and Southeast Asia.

ASL has influenced the development of some sign languages in countries like Nigeria and the Philippines.

This influence is often because of missionary work, educational programs, and Deaf community initiatives that have introduced ASL to these regions.

What Makes ASL Unique?

American Sign Language (ASL) is unique for several reasons. 

Those reasons set it apart not only from spoken languages but from other sign languages around the world as well.

Here are some key features that make ASL unique:

• Grammar and syntax
• Cultural significance
• Influence of French Sign Language
• Fingerspelling
• Spatial grammar
• Iconicity

ASL often uses a topic-comment structure. 

This means the topic of the sentence is introduced first, followed by a comment or description about it. 

This structure allows for a flexible and context-driven way of communicating.

Facial expressions, eyebrow movements, and head tilts play a key role in ASL grammar. 

For instance, raising your eyebrows can indicate a question. Other facial expressions can change the meaning of a sign or add emphasis.

ASL is not just a language. It's a key component of Deaf culture in the United States and Canada. 

It's a source of identity and pride for the Deaf community.

ASL has roots in French Sign Language (LSF). It was brought to the United States by Laurent Clerc, a Deaf educator from France, and Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet. 

This historical connection has influenced the development of ASL.

ASL uses a one-handed manual alphabet for finger spelling. 

This one-handed approach is different from the two-handed Alphabet used in BSL and adds to the uniqueness of ASL.

ASL also involves spatial grammar. Signs are placed in different locations in the signing space to represent different subjects, objects, or ideas. 

Some signs in ASL are iconic. This means that they visually resemble the concept they represent.

For example, the sign for "tree" looks like a tree. The hand and arm represent the trunk and branches. 

ASL vs. BSL

Spoken American English and British English are very similar, with differences in accent and spelling.

But that's not the case with American Sign Language and British Sign Language. 

With these two sign languages, everything is different, from the alphabet to how you sign numbers. 

Here are some other major differences between ASL and BSL:

1. Fingerspelling
2. Grammar and sentence structure
3. Vocabulary and signs
4. Use of non-manual signals

ASL uses a one-handed manual alphabet for finger spelling. Each letter of the English alphabet has a corresponding hand shape.

BSL uses a two-handed manual alphabet. This means that both hands are used to represent the letters when fingerspelling. 

ASL often follows a topic-comment structure, where the topic is presented first. It's then followed by a comment or action related to it. 

BSL typically uses a subject-object-verb (SOV) structure. It differs from the typical English subject-verb-object (SVO) order. 

ASL's vocabulary is heavily influenced by French Sign Language (LSF) due to its historical roots. However, ASL has developed independently in North America.

BSL has its own unique signs that are not mutually intelligible with ASL. 

The signs used in BSL are different and were developed independently within the UK.

ASL relies heavily on facial expressions, head movements, and body posture to convey meaning, grammatical nuances, and tone.

BSL also uses non-manual signals. But, the specific gestures, expressions, and their meanings can differ from those in ASL.

How to Learn ASL?

There are many ways to learn ASL. It's important to start with something easy and beginner-friendly. 

Learning any new language can be daunting. Sign languages are no different, even ASL. 

It takes plenty of time and dedication to learn ASL.

You start with the Alphabet, greetings, and everyday terms. Then, you can move on to more complicated terms. 

Here are some ways you can learn ASL:

1. Start with online resources and apps
2. Take a formal class at a community college or university
3. Join an ASL group to practice regularly
4. Immerse yourself in the Deaf community and culture
5. Use ASL dictionaries
6. Work with an ASL tutor

Many websites offer structured ASL courses, from beginner to advanced levels. They provide free lessons that include videos, explanations, and quizzes.

You can also use an ASL learning app, like ASL Bloom, for daily lessons. 

Many educational institutions offer ASL courses as part of their curriculum. These classes often provide a more structured and in-depth learning experience.

Consistency is key when learning a new language. 

Try to practice ASL daily, even if it's just for a few minutes. Use apps and flashcards, or practice finger spelling to keep your skills sharp.

Many communities have ASL meetups or Deaf events where you can practice signing with others. 

Participating in Deaf events lets you immerse yourself in the language and culture. These can include social gatherings, performances, or Deaf cultural festivals.

Consider working with an ASL tutor. A tutor can provide personalized feedback and guidance as you learn.

Learning ASL with ASL Bloom

The best way to start learning American Sign Language is with the ASL Bloom app.

ASL Bloom isn't just easy to use, it's also fun too. You can complete lessons every day and learn new signs as you go. 

You can always go back to your finished lessons to recap what you learned. 

Just doing one lesson a day lets you continue your streak. The more you learn, the longer streak you will have. 

ASL Bloom also includes:

•  20 modules with 120 lessons and 1300+ signs and sentences
• A visual dictionary with all signs across the lessons
• Practices quizzes and dialogues
• Grammar and culture tips
• Interactive learning tools

With ASL Bloom, you can learn at your own pace. There is no pressure, making this ASL learning app even more convenient. 

You can download ASL Bloom on your iPhone or Android today and start learning. 

Is ASL Universal?

ASL is not universal. It's primarily used in the US and Canada. But, that doesn't mean you shouldn't try learning this sign language. 

Not only can learning ASL be useful, but it also helps you understand the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. 

Download ASL Bloom to start learning American Sign Language today.

{{cta}}