I am very ignorant when it comes to sign language in general.
Why is it called American Sign Language? Is it based off of English? If so why not English Sign Language?
For example is their a Chinese sign language? Would someone who knows Chinese sign language be able to communicate with an American Sign Language person?
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ASL is not a direct translation of English! It has its own syntax and grammar. English Sign Language would imply that the signs are based on the structure of English but it actually developed its grammar system influenced by French Sign Language (which explains some of its roots). there are many different sign languages around the world like British, French, Mexican, etc. Just like spoken languages, someone who knows Chinese Sign Language would not automatically understand American Sign Language, because they’re completely different languages. They have their own vocabulary, grammar, and signs, just like how English and Chinese are different spoken languages.
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