Abstract
In this paper, we compare so-called “classifier” constructions in signed languages (which we refer to as “depicting constructions”) with comparable iconic gestures produced by non-signers. We show clear correspondences between entity constructions and observer viewpoint gestures on the one hand, and handling constructions and character viewpoint gestures on the other. Such correspondences help account for both lexicalisation and de-lexicalisation processes in signed languages and how these processes are influenced by viewpoint. Understanding these processes is crucial when coding and annotating natural sign language data.
Highlights
A number of researchers have suggested that sign language grammars include morphosyntactic constructions that can be compared to spoken language classifier constructions (e.g., Emmorey, 2003)
The earliest suggestions that signed languages contain forms that are akin to spoken language classifiers focused on the handshapes of particular signs and how those handshapes appeared to categorise referents in particular ways similar to the nominal categorisation seen in spoken language classifier or classificatory verb systems (e.g., Frishberg, 1975; Kegl and Wilbur, 1976; Supalla, 1978)
We explore the issues related to the appropriate characterisation of depicting constructions in a detailed examination of these signs and comparable constructions used by non-signers in gesture
Summary
A number of researchers have suggested that sign language grammars include morphosyntactic constructions that can be compared to spoken language classifier constructions (e.g., Emmorey, 2003). We intend to show that understanding these processes is crucial when working with natural sign language data; otherwise one runs the risk of attributing lexical status to constructions which are only partially (or not at all) lexicalised or vice versa. This can have substantial consequences when making claims about the linguistic versus gestural nature of depicting constructions, and about the nature of the sign language lexicon more generally
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