INTRODUCTION

 

           

Written language and sign language are two forms of communication that, although they share the goal of conveying ideas, do so in very different ways. In this analysis, we will explore the key differences and similarities between written language, such as Spanish, and Spanish Sign Language (LSE), which is the visual and gestural form of communication used by the deaf community in Spain. We will also discuss how these languages are deeply connected to the culture of their speakers and how they are perceived within their respective communities.

LINGUISTIC DIFFERENCES

 

MODE OF TRANSMISSION: VISUAL vs. AUDITORY

Written language, like Spanish, uses the alphabetic system and is interpreted visually, but it relies on the ability to read, which requires a learning process. In contrast, Spanish Sign Language (LSE) is perceived visually, using gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey messages simultaneously. LSE does not follow a linear interpretation like written language, as it can transmit multiple ideas at the same time through the orientation of the hands, body position, and facial expressions.

GRAMMAR AND SYNTAX

In written language, such as Spanish, a clear syntactic structure is followed (Subject-Verb-Object, SVO), while LSE uses a different grammatical structure, often following the Object-Subject-Verb (OSV) pattern. Additionally, in LSE, certain grammatical elements that are essential in written Spanish, like articles or prepositions, are often omitted, as the visual and gestural context typically provides enough information.

ICONICITY vs. ABSTRACTION

A key difference is that in LSE, many signs are iconic, meaning they physically resemble what they represent, such as the sign for "eating," which imitates bringing food to the mouth. In contrast, written Spanish words are abstract, using combinations of letters that do not have a direct visual connection to their meaning.

FACIAL AND BODY EXPRESIONS

Facial expressions and body gestures are essential in LSE, as they complement and sometimes modify the meaning of signs. In written Spanish, this type of physical expression is not included, limiting communication to a textual plane, unless other elements like punctuation or exclamation marks are added.

LINGUISTIC SIMILARITIES

Despite the differences mentioned, both written language and sign language share some essential aspects:

GRAMMATICAL NORMS

Both languages have structures that must be followed for effective communication. Although the grammatical rules are different, both written Spanish and LSE have standards that users must learn to clearly convey their messages.

LEXICON & MINIMAL COMMUNICATION UNITS

 

Both languages possess a complex lexicon, with minimal units of meaning (words in written Spanish and signs in LSE) that combine to create more complex ideas. Additionally, the learning curve for both languages is similar in terms of the need for practice and continuous exposure to master them.

CULTURAL AND SOCIAL ASPECTS

Written Spanish is a communication tool widely used in various contexts, but LSE is deeply connected to the deaf community. Sign language is not only a means of communication but also a cultural pillar representing the identity and history of deaf people in Spain. Similarly, written language, like spoken language, is a fundamental vehicle in general culture, but sign language has a direct connection to the visual and gestural culture specific to its community.

CONCLUSION

Both written language and sign language are essential for communication within their respective communities. Although there are notable differences in how they are transmitted and perceived, both languages follow specific rules that ensure their effectiveness as means of communication. Understanding these differences and similarities not only promotes greater inclusion but also allows us to appreciate the richness of linguistic diversity.