Is Sign Language Universal?

As a professional sign language interpreter, one of the most common questions I get is “Is sign language universal?”

Unfortunately, the answer is no. This is why each sign language is named as such. For example, American Sign Language (ASL) versus British Sign Language (BSL), or Mexican Sign language (LSM), or Spanish Sign Language from Spain (LSE).

Notice how the sign languages are named for their country, not by the spoken language associated with those countries. This means that British Sign Language is a drastically different language than American Sign Language, even though English is spoken in both countries. For example, ASL uses only one hand for the alphabet, while BSL uses two hands for some letters. “A” in ASL looks nothing like “A” in BSL. The same differences are true for LSM and LSE, even though Spanish is spoken in both countries.

A typical follow-up question is “Why don’t they just make sign language universal?”

You have to keep in mind that deaf people have existed as long as humans have existed. This means before social media, the internet, planes, boats, even books were even invented. They had to come up with a way to communicate, and just as spoken languages slowly developed in each tribe, community, and eventually country, so did sign language. There have been recent efforts to create a universal spoken and sign language, however they are not widely spoken and it is difficult to have the same in-depth level of conversation using those languages as they are more limited than organic languages.

Clearly, I would love for sign language to be universal. It would mean being able to travel to France and automatically be fluent amongst the Deaf Parisians. I could then pack my bags and scoot on over to Spain, where I wouldn’t miss a beat while having cañas and tapas with my Deaf compañeros. I could also work as a professional interpreter anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

That being said, once you know one sign language then it definitely makes it easier to learn a new one.

Some signs are similar in the end and your hand agility/coordination will definitely transfer over. The best way to learn a new language is to study, practice, and of course immersing yourself in the culture. Most major cities in the world have opportunities to take classes and many are offered online. It’s easier than ever to learn a new sign language.

Find an Interpreting Agency Near You

While sign language is not universal, it is possible to get an interpreter in just about any country. If you find yourself traveling and in need of conversing with a local, you can always ask around for local interpreting agencies. A professional sign language interpreter will facilitate communication and eliminate barriers, whether it’s for a business meeting or just wanting to get to know more about the people in those countries.