ASL Sentence Structures

Understanding ASL sentence structures is key to effective communication. These structures, like Topic-Comment and SVO, help convey meaning clearly and flexibly, allowing signers to emphasize important information and establish context in conversations.

1. Topic-Comment Structure

   • The topic is introduced first, followed by a comment about it.
   • This structure emphasizes the subject of the conversation.
   • It allows for flexibility in sentence construction, focusing on what is important to the signer.

2. Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) Structure

   • Follows a clear order: Subject comes first, followed by the Verb, and then the Object.
   • This structure is similar to English and is commonly used in ASL.
   • It provides clarity and straightforwardness in conveying actions and relationships.

3. Time-Subject-Object-Verb (TSOV) Structure

   • Time indicators are placed at the beginning of the sentence.
   • This structure emphasizes when an action takes place before stating who is involved and what the action is.
   • It helps to establish context for the conversation.

4. Rhetorical Question Structure

   • Used to make a point rather than to elicit an answer.
   • Often involves facial expressions to convey the intended meaning.
   • It can engage the audience and provoke thought without requiring a response.

5. Conditional Sentences

   • These sentences express hypothetical situations and their consequences.
   • Typically structured with "if" clauses to introduce the condition.
   • They are essential for discussing possibilities and outcomes.

6. Negation Structure

   • Used to express denial or contradiction of a statement.
   • Commonly involves specific signs or facial expressions to indicate negation.
   • It is crucial for clarifying misunderstandings or stating what is not true.

7. Yes/No Question Structure

   • Typically involves raising eyebrows and using specific question signs.
   • The structure often mirrors the SVO format but with a questioning intonation.
   • It allows for straightforward inquiries that can be answered with a simple "yes" or "no."

8. Wh-Question Structure

   • Begins with a question word (who, what, where, when, why).
   • The signer typically furrows their brows and leans slightly forward.
   • This structure seeks specific information and requires more detailed responses.

9. Topicalization

   • Involves emphasizing a particular topic by placing it at the beginning of the sentence.
   • It can change the focus of the conversation and highlight important information.
   • This structure allows for more nuanced discussions by shifting the emphasis.

10. Spatial Agreement

    • Utilizes the signing space to represent people, places, or things.
    • Signers establish locations in space to maintain clarity in reference.
    • It enhances understanding by visually mapping out relationships and actions.