Semantic Classifier I American Sign Language (ASL)

The concept of semantics in any language can be very confusing to a language learner. The general idea is that there are multiple shades of meaning behind expressions and words. These small nuances may go unnoticed by a new learner, but are easily detected and very useful when conveying subtle meanings to someone who is more advanced in the language. In sign language classifiers function as several different parts of speech. One such pivotal role of classifiers is the function of pronouns, or more simply put, as the replacement of noun signs. Often times these semantic classifiers are layered with movements that allow them to act as both noun and verb in the sentence. One of the most common examples of semantic classifiers is the use of multiple fingers to represent a plural of the single person. For example: the number to handshape is often used to represent two persons doing some activity together. Another frequently used example is that of the number three handshape, representing a car to depict the manner in which the driver is conducting the vehicle. Using semantic classifiers helps to bring our story to life without adding extra vocabulary in this section, we will take a look at how semantic classifiers function, and where it is appropriate to use them.

Who this course is for:

• For the intermediate who want to expand visual concepts in ASL.