sign languages
Sign languages are visual languages that use hand shapes, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning. They are primarily used by the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, allowing them to communicate effectively without spoken words. Each sign language is unique and can vary significantly from one country or region to another, such as American Sign Language (ASL) in the United States and British Sign Language (BSL) in the United Kingdom.
These languages have their own grammar and syntax, making them fully developed means of communication. Sign languages are not universal; for example, ASL is different from Langue des Signes Française (LSF), the sign language used in France. Learning sign language can foster inclusivity and improve communication between hearing and deaf individuals.