A Review of Sign Language Systems

Sign languages are languages that utilize the visual-manual modality to convey meaning. These languages are expressed through manual articulations combined with non-manual elements. Sign languages are complete natural languages, possessing their own grammar and lexicon. They are primarily used by individuals who are Deaf or have hearing impairments. Sign languages are not universal and are not mutually intelligible with one another, though they do exhibit striking similarities among them. In the context of Britain, the most prevalent form of Sign Language is known as British Sign Language (BSL). BSL possesses its own distinct grammatical structure and syntax; as a language, it is neither dependent on nor closely related to spoken English. This paper offers a comprehensive review of sign language systems, including an exploration of related studies on British Sign Language, as well as an examination of the legal, social, and ethical considerations associated with these languages.