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Languages.kif
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;; Access to and use of these products is governed by the GNU General Public
;; License <http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/gpl.html>.
;; By using these products, you agree to be bound by the terms
;; of the GPL.
;; Language description text is excerpted from http://www.ethnologue.com/
;; and is copyright SIL International.
;; Those who are interested in making use of this ontology are requested
;; to contact Adam Pease (apease@articulatesoftware.com).
;; We ask the people using or referencing this work cite our primary paper:
;; Niles, I., and Pease, A. 2001. Towards a Standard Upper Ontology. In
;; Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Formal Ontology in
;; Information Systems (FOIS-2001), Chris Welty and Barry Smith, eds,
;; Ogunquit, Maine, October 17-19, 2001. See also http://www.ontologyportal.org
;; Note: In this version, the language section is incomplete.
;; The following sections are completed down to the level of the individual
;; languages:
;; A. MANUAL LANGUAGES
;; PART a. NON-DEAF SIGN LANGUAGES
;; PART b. DEAF SIGN LANGUAGES
;; B. SPOKEN HUMAN LANGUAGES
;; PART a. ARTIFICIAL LANGUAGES
;; PART b. CREOLE LANGUAGES
;; PART c. LANGUAGE ISOLATES
;; PART d. MIXED LANGUAGES
;; PART e. PIDGIN LANGUAGES
;; PART f. UNCLASSIFIED LANGUAGES
;; PART g. MAJOR LANGUAGE FAMILIES
;; SECTION II. ALACALUFAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION V. AMTO-MUSAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION VI. ANDAMANESE LANGUAGES
;; SECTION VII. ARAUAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION VIII. ARAUCANIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION X. ARUTANI-SAPE LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XIV. AYMARAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XV. BARBACOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XVI. BASQUE GROUP LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XVII. BAYONO-AWBONO LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XVIII. CADDOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XIX. CAHUAPANAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XX. CANT LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXII. CHAPACURA-WANHAM LANGUAGES.
;; SECTION XXIV. CHIMAKUAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXVI. CHON LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXVII. CHUKOTKO-KAMCHATKAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXVIII. CHUMASH GROUP LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXIX. COAHUILTECAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXI. EAST BIRD'S HEAD LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXV. GUAHIBAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXVI. GULF LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXVII. HARAKMBET LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XL. HUAVEAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLII. IROQUOIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLIII. JAPANESE GROUP LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLIV. JIVAROAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLV. KATUKINAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLVI. KERES LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLVIII. KIOWA TANOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLIX. LEFT MAY LANGUAGES
;; SECTION L. LOWER MAMBERAMO LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LI. LULE-VILELA LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LIII. MAKU LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LIV. MASCOIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LV. MATACO-GUAICURU LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LVII. MISUMALPAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LIX. MOSETENAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LX. MURA LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXI. MUSKOGEAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXIII. NAMBIQUARAN LANGUAGE
;; SECTION LXVIII. PAEZAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXX. PEBA-YAGUAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXIV. SALIVAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXVIII. SKO LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXIX. SOUTH CAUCASIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXX. SUBTIABA-TLAPANEC LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXI. TACANAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXIV. TOTONACAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXIX. URU-CHIPAYA LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCI. WAKASHAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCII. WEST PAPUAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCIII. WITOTOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCIV. YANOMAM LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCV. YENISEI OSTYAK LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCVI. YUKAGHIR LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCVII. YUKI GROUP LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCVIII. ZAMUCOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XCIX. ZAPAROAN LANGUAGES
;; The following major language families of spoken languages are still
;; incomplete (i.e. left either partially or fully unspecified):
;; PART g. MAJOR LANGUAGE FAMILIES
;; SECTION I. AFRO-ASIATIC LANGUAGES
;; SECTION III. ALGIC LANGUAGES
;; SECTION IV. ALTAIC LANGUAGES
;; SECTION IX. ARAWAKAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XI. AUSTRALIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XII. AUSTRO-ASIATIC LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XIII. AUSTRONESIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXI. CARIB LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXIII. CHIBCHAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXV. CHOCO LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXX. DRAVIDIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXII. EAST PAPUAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXIII. ESKIMO-ALEUT LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXIV. GEELVINK BAY LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXVIII. HMONG-MIEN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XXXIX. HOKAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XLI. INDO-EUROPEAN LANGUAGES
;; (NOTE: ONLY INDO-IRANIAN LANGUAGES INCOMPLETE)
;; SECTION XLVII. KHOISAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LII. MACRO-GE LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LVI. MAYAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LVIII. MIXE-ZOQUE LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXII. NA-DENE LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXIV. NIGER-CONGO LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXV. NILO-SAHARAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXVI. NORTH CAUCASIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXVII. OTO-MANGUEAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXIX. PANOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXI. PENUTIAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXII. QUECHUAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXIII. SALISHAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXV. SEPIK-RAMU LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXVI. SINO-TIBETAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXII. TAI-KADAI LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXIII. TORRICELLI LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXV. TRANS-NEW GUINEA LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXVI. TUCANOAN LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXVII. TUPI LANGUAGES
;; SECTION LXXXVIII. URALIC LANGUAGES
;; SECTION XC. UTO-AZTECAN LANGUAGES
;; A. MANUAL HUMAN LANGUAGES (116 Languages)
;; a. NON-DEAF SIGN LANGUAGES (2 Languages)
(instance MonasticSignLanguage ManualHumanLanguage)
(documentation MonasticSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MonasticSignLanguage is a
&%ManualHumanLanguage of the &%HolySee (the Vatican State) and &%Europe. SIL
code: MZG. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate available. Region: Monastic
communities, especially in Europe. Comments: A second language means of
communicating while maintaining vows of silence. Not a deaf sign language.
Second language only.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance PlainsIndianSignLanguage ManualHumanLanguage)
(documentation PlainsIndianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%PlainsIndianSignLanguage is a
&%ManualHumanLanguage of the &%UnitedStates. SIL code: PSD. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Region: Great Plains of the USA and Canada.
Also spoken in Canada. Alternate names: PLAINS SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: Some
variation by ethnic group and region. Formerly used between nations in
hunting, trade, by deaf people, and at every level of social interaction, and
with non-Indians. Today used within nations in storytelling, rituals, legends,
prayers, and by deaf people. Arose when horses were introduced from the south
by the Spanish and guns from the east by the French. Second language only.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
;; b. DEAF SIGN LANGUAGES (114 Languages)
(subclass DeafSignLanguage ManualHumanLanguage)
(documentation DeafSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "A &%DeafSignLanguage is a
&%ManualHumanLanguage primarily intended for communication between a
deaf individual and a hearing individual or between deaf individuals.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance AdamorobeSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation AdamorobeSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%AdamorobeSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Ghana. SIL code: ADS. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: 300 deaf in the village, 3,000 including hearing people
(1998 GILLBT). Region: Adamorobe, a village in the Eastern Region. The
district capital is Aburi. Comments: All ages, evenly distributed. 15%
deafness in the population, one of the highest percentages in the world,
caused by genetic recessive autosome. The village has been settled for 200
years. It is an indigenous deaf sign language, also used by many hearing
people. Most users have no contact with Ghanaian Sign Language. They are
considered to be full citizens. Agriculturalists, firewood traders.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance AlgerianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation AlgerianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%AlgerianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Algeria. SIL code: ASP. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Comments: It has influenced the deaf
community in Oujda in northern Morocco.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance AmericanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation AmericanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%AmericanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%UnitedStates. SIL code: ASE. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: 100,000 to 500,000 primary users (1986 Gallaudet U.) out of
nearly 2,000,000 profoundly deaf persons in USA (1988), 0.8% of the USA
population. 15,000,000 hard of hearing persons in the USA (1989 Sacks).
Population total all countries 100,000 to 500,000. Region: Also used in
varying degrees in Canada, Philippines, Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, Burkina Faso,
Gabon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic,
Cote d'Ivoire, Mauritania, Kenya, Madagascar, Benin, Togo, Zimbabwe,
Singapore, China (Hong Kong). Also spoken in Canada, Guatemala. Alternate
names: ASL, AMESLAN, THE LANGUAGE OF THE DEAF. Dialects: BLACK AMERICAN
SIGN LANGUAGE, TACTILE SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: Black American Sign Language
developed in segregated schools in the south. It contains much sign
vocabulary not in ASL and some different grammatical structure. Tactile
Sign Language is used by over 900 persons in Louisiana who know ASL, but
have lost their sight from a generic cause: Usher's Syndrome. They
communicate by touch on each other's wrists. Some have migrated to Seattle.
Some have learned Braille. ASL has 43% lexical similarity with French Sign
Language in an 872-word list. Sign language interpreters provided in court,
for college students, at important public events, in job training, at social
services programs, in mental health service programs, some instruction for
parents of deaf children, many sign language classes for hearing people.
There is an organization for sign language teachers. Many hearing people are
learning ASL as second language. Reported to be the third largest language in
the USA (1993 Honolulu Advertiser). Used since 1817. ASL is different from
'English on the Hands' (Signed English, Siglish). There are several systems
of manually coded English, including different ones in different countries.
Also several systems called Pidgin Signed English. Pidgin Signed English is
taught in schools in the USA rather than ASL. Investigation needed:
intelligibility with Black American Sign Language. Dictionary. SOV,
prepositions, genitives, articles, adjectives, numerals, relatives before
noun heads, question word initial. The average deaf person graduates from
high school with 3rd or 4th grade reading level in English. TV, videos.
Bible portions 1982-1996. Also used in: Canada (Language name AMERICAN SIGN
LANGUAGE, Alternate names: ASL, AMESLAN). Comments: Dialect differences with
USA ASL, and regional differences in Canada from east to west. Structurally
and grammatically distinct from Quebec Sign Language (LSQ). Has grammatical
characteristics independent of English. A few adults know both ASL and LSQ.
Most signers from eastern 'Canada use ASL with some British Sign Language
vocabulary, a remnant from Maritime Sign Language, which came from British
Sign Language. Sign language interpreters are required for deaf people in
court. Used for deaf college students, important public functions, job
training, social service programs, sign language instruction for parents of
deaf children, classes for hearing people, organization for sign language
teachers, committee on national sign language. Manual alphabet. Dictionary.
TV, videos. Bible portions 1982-1987. Also used in: Guatemala (Language name:
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE, Alternate names: ASL, AMESLAN). Comments: There may
be other sign languages besides ASL. Dictionary. Videos. Bible portions
1982-1987.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ArgentineSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ArgentineSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ArgentineSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Argentina. SIL code: AED. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: Deaf people go to different schools, each
using a different sign language outside class. Sign language is not allowed
in the classroom. Volunteer sign language interpreters are used at some
important public events. There are sign language stories and drama on film.
There is a committee for a national sign language, and organizations for sign
language teachers and interpreters. Deaf schools were begun in 1885. Some
research on the language. There is a manual alphabet for Spanish spelling.
TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ArmenianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ArmenianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ArmenianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Armenia. SIL code: AEN. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance AustralianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation AustralianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%AustralianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Australia. SIL code: ASF. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
14,000 users possibly (1991 Hyde and Power). Alternate names: AUSLAN.
Comments: Related to British Sign Language, with influences also from Irish
and American sign languages. Australian Signed English is different. It is a
manual system for English spelling, used by hearing people for communication
with the deaf. It is used in teaching the deaf, and officially so in New
South Wales. The earliest schools for the deaf were established by British
deaf immigrants in 1860. Many agencies for the deaf. Some signed
interpretation in court, for college students, at important public events.
There is sign language instruction for parents of deaf children. There is a
committee on national sign language. Dictionary. Grammar. Films, TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance AustralianAboriginesSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation AustralianAboriginesSignLanguage EnglishLanguage
"&%AustralianAboriginesSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage of &%Australia.
SIL code: ASW. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate available. Region:
Southern, central, and western desert regions, coastal Arnhem Land, some
islands of north coast, western side of Cape York Peninsula, islands of
Torres Strait. Comments: Not related to Australian Sign Language. Several
different sign languages are also used by deaf persons. Also used by hearing
Aborigines as an alternate form of communication with speakers of other
languages. Other non-deaf sign languages are used by some groups, such as
Aranda, Warlpiri, Warumungu, during periods of mourning or hunting.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance AustrianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation AustrianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%AustrianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Austria. SIL code: ASQ. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Alternate names: AUSTRO-HUNGARIAN SIGN LANGUAGE.
Comments: Partially intelligible with French Sign Language. Related to
Russian Sign Language. The sign language used in class and that used by adults
outside class are different. Deaf people go to different schools, each using
a different sign language. Sign language interpreters are used some in court.
Professionals are required to know sign language in job training and social
services programs. There is little research. There are a few classes for
hearing people. Originated 1870. There is a manual alphabet for spelling.
Dictionary. Films, TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BaliSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BaliSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BaliSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Indonesia (the island of Bali). SIL code: BQY.
ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: 2,200 in the village, out of 50 deaf people and
2,150 hearing people (1995 T. Friedman). Region: 1 village in Bali. Comments:
The majority of the hearing people learn and use the sign language. This might
not be the correct name.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BamakoSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BamakoSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BamakoSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Mali. SIL code: BOG. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No
estimate available. Region: Bamako school for deaf children, separated into 3
grade classes. It is not known if it is widely used elsewhere or not.
Comments: Not related to other sign languages. They have some knowledge of
French, and possibly Bambara. 6 to 50 years old. Some hearing people use it to
communicate with deaf people. Another community of deaf people in Bamako use
a West African variety of American Sign Language. Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BanKhorSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BanKhorSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BanKhorSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Thailand. SIL code: BLA. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Northeastern Thailand, a few villages.
Comments: Not related to the original sign languages of Thailand, but there
is some similarity.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BelgianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BelgianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BelgianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Belgium. SIL code: BVS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Dialects: NORTH BELGIUM SIGN LANGUAGE, SOUTH BELGIUM
SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: A variety of regional dialects which have their
roots in different deaf schools. The dialect in the Flemish region is closer
to that in the Walloon region than it is to Dutch Sign Language. Adopted signs
from the old French sign language directly and indirectly. It began in 1825.
Different sign languages are used in the classroom and by adults outside the
classroom. Limited influence from Signed Dutch. Signed French and Signed
Dutch are used some for intercommunication with hearing people. 3 deaf
schools in Brussels have trained about one-third of the deaf in Belgium.
There are 26 deaf institutions. Sign language interpreters are required in
court. Some interpreters are available for college students. Some interpreters
are provided for job training and mental health programs. There is sign
language instruction for parents of deaf children. There is a committee on
national sign language. Little research on the language. There are sign
language classes for hearing people. There have been schools for deaf people
since 1825. Dictionary. Films, TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BolivianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BolivianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BolivianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Bolivia. SIL code: BVL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
350 to 400 users (1988 E. Powlison). Region: Cochabamba, La Paz, Riberalta,
Santa Cruz. Comments: Based on American Sign Language with necessary changes
for Spanish spelling. Some groups in La Paz and Santa Cruz use the same signs
with some dialect signs from their own areas. Originated by missionaries.
Other deaf schools use only the oralist approach. Investigation needed:
intelligibility with American Sign Language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BrazilianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BrazilianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BrazilianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Brazil. SIL code: BZS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Santa
Catarina, and elsewhere. Alternate names: LSB, SAO PAULO SIGN LANGUAGE.
Comments: The dialects appear to be inherently intelligible, although
northern dialects above the Amazon are probably more different. Some
relationship to North American and European sign languages. The
fingerspelling used for proper names is similar to a European system. The
first deaf school was begun in 1857 in Rio de Janeiro, then one in Porto
Alegre. The deaf in Sao Paulo generally receive an oralist education. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BritishSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BritishSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BritishSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%UnitedKingdom. SIL code: BHO. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: 40,000 mother tongue users (1984 Deuchar), out of 909,000 deaf,
of which the majority probably have some degree of sign language competence
(1977 Deuchar). Region: United Kingdom including Northern Ireland, Scotland.
Alternate names: BSL. Comments: Not inherently intelligible to users of ASL.
The deaf community is cohesive, so communication is good despite regional
differences. However, there are many reports of different sign languages
which are inherently unintelligible to users as close as approximately every
50 miles. Good regional and national organizations for the deaf. Signed
interpretation is required in court, and provided in some other situations.
Sign language instruction for parents of deaf children. Many sign language
classes for hearing people. There is an organization for sign language
teachers. There is a committee on national sign language. Sign language was
used before 1644. Deaf schools were established in the late 18th century.
There is increasing desire to train deaf children in BSL. British Signed
English is different from American Signed English. Dictionary. Grammar.
Films, TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance BulgarianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation BulgarianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%BulgarianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Bulgaria. SIL code: BQN. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: Different sign languages are used in the
classroom and by adults outside. One sign language which has been used since
1920. There have been elementary schools for deaf people since 1898. Since
1945 sign language has been allowed in the classroom. Sign language
interpreters are required in court. Some are available for college students.
There is sign language instruction for parents of deaf children. There is a
committee on national sign language. Little research on the sign language.
There are few sign language classes for hearing people. There is a manual
alphabet for spelling. Dictionary. Films, TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance CatalonianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation CatalonianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%CatalonianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Spain. SIL code: CSC. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
18,000 (1994 estimate). Region: Catalonia. Comments: An indigenous sign
language, quite distinct from Spanish Sign Language. About 50%
intelligibility by users of Spanish Sign Language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ChadianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ChadianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ChadianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Chad. SIL code: CDS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: 390
or more users out of a large deaf population (1989 Mokommbay Yonadjiel KATA).
Region: Schools and an association for the deaf in N'Djamena, Sarh, and
Moundou. Comments: Influences from American Sign Language. Some signs are
traditional. Teachers were trained in Nigeria. Muslim, Christian.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ChiangmaiSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ChiangmaiSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ChiangmaiSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Thailand. SIL code: CSD. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Chiangmai. Alternate names: CHIENGMAI SIGN
LANGUAGE. Comments Related to present sign languages in Laos and Viet Nam
(Haiphong, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City). A distinct language from Thai Sign
Language. Still remembered by signers over 45 years old in Chiangmai. Younger
signers use Modern Thai Sign Language. Investigation needed: bilingual
proficiency in Thai Sign Language, attitudes.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ChileanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ChileanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ChileanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Chile. SIL code: CSG. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ChineseSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ChineseSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ChineseSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%China. SIL code: CSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
(3,000,000 deaf persons in China, 1986 Gallaudet Univ.). Region: Also spoken
in Malaysia, Taiwan. Dialects: SHANGHAI SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: There are
several dialects, of which Shanghai is the most influential. Few signs of
foreign origin. Schools and workshops or farms for the deaf are channels of
dissemination. Developed since the late 1950s. There are also Chinese
character signs. Others use home sign languages. The first deaf school was
begun by missionary C.R. Mills and wife in 1887, but American Sign Language
did not influence Chinese Sign Language. Dictionary. Grammar. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ColombianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ColombianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ColombianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Columbia. SIL code: CSN. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
(50,000 deaf in Bogota in 1992). Comments: Some signs are similar to those in
sign languages of El Salvador, Spain, and the USA. Half of school age. There
are at least 4 deaf schools (begun in 1924), 2 in Bogota and 2 in Medellin,
and 3 other deaf institutions. Some schools use sign language in the
classroom. Interpreters are provided at important public events, and for
college students. Many sign language classes for hearing people. There is a
committee on the national sign language, and an organization for sign
language teachers. Little research. It is not clear how many deaf persons
know a sign language. Begun in 1929. There is a manual alphabet for spelling.
Dictionary. Grammar. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance CostaRicanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation CostaRicanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%CostaRicanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%CostaRica. SIL code: CSR. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: May be related to Providencia Sign Language.
Reported to have about 60% lexical similarity with ASL.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance CzechSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation CzechSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%CzechSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%CzechRepublic. SIL code: CSE. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Comments: Partially intelligible with
French Sign Language. Used since 1786 when deaf schools began. Sign language
used in school different from that used by adults outside. Signed
interpretation required in court. Some provided for college students and at
important public events. There is sign language instruction for parents of
deaf children. Many sign language classes for hearing people. There is a
committee on national sign language. More than one sign language used in the
country. There is a manual alphabet for spelling. Dictionary. Films, TV,
videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance DanishSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation DanishSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%DanishSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Denmark. SIL code: DSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
(3,500 deaf in Denmark, 1986 Gallaudet Univ.) Comments: Some signs are related
to French Sign Language. Intelligible with Swedish and Norwegian sign
languages with only moderate difficulty. Not intelligible with Finnish Sign
Language. Used in all 5 state schools for the deaf. Signed interpretation
required in court, college classes, at important public events, in job
training, social services, and mental health programs. Instruction provided
for parents of deaf children, for other hearing people. There is a committee
on national sign language, an organization for sign language teachers. A lot
of research. Signed Danish is distinct, but used in intercommunication with
some hearing people. The first school was begun in 1807. Dictionary. Grammar.
Films, TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance DominicanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation DominicanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%DominicanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%DominicanRepublic. SIL code: DOQ. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Comments: Reported to have 85% to 90%
lexical similarity with ASL, and to use most of the features of ASL, such as
absent referent and reduplication. Many are not fluent or use home sign.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance DutchSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation DutchSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%DutchSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of the &%Netherlands. SIL code: DSE. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: 20,000 deaf
use Dutch Sign Language. There are 400,000 hearing impaired, 28,000 deaf
(1986 Gallaudet Univ.) Alternate names: SIGN LANGUAGE OF THE NETHERLANDS, SLN.
Comments: All users listed are adults (1986). There are 5 varieties associated
with 5 schools for the deaf, each with about 1,500 students. There have been
elementary schools for the deaf since 1790. Developed from French Sign
Language, some features similar to American and British sign languages.
Currently in transition. Distinct from Signed Dutch. There is a manual system
for spelling. Dictionary. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance EcuadorianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation EcuadorianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%EcuadorianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Ecuador. SIL code: ECS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
(188,000 deaf persons, 2% of the population, 1986 Gallaudet Univ.) Comments:
Slight regional variants in sign languages. Some influences from USA Peace
Corps, others from people educated in Spain or Argentina. Some deaf schools
use total communication, speaking and signing.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance EstonianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation EstonianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%EstonianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Estonia. SIL code: ESO. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
4,500 users out of 1,600 deaf and 20,000 hearing impaired. 2,000 persons need
regular help from interpreters (1998 Urmas Sutrop). Region: Throughout
Estonia, especially Tallinn and Parnu. Alternate names: VIIPEKEEL. Comments:
Some local dialects. The dialect in Parnu is the most archaic. Apparent
influences from Finnish and Russian Sign Languages. Some people can use both
Estonian and Russian Sign Languages. Russian Sign Language is used in Tallinn
by deaf Russians. In other regions Russians use some pidginized versions of
Russian Sign Language mixed with Estonian Sign Language. Systematic teaching
and research since 1990 at the Dept. of Special Education at Tartu University.
Sign language instruction for parents of deaf children in Tallinn. Classes for
hearing people in Tallinn and Parnu. Classes for interpretars. Schools for
children with hearing impairments. Many children with hearing impairments in
ordinary schools. Oral and signed teaching. There is a Society of the
Interpreters of Estonian Sign Language. Centers for interpreters in Tallinn,
Tartu, Parnu, at the Association of Deaf People. Local authorities pay for
interpreters for 36 hours for each deaf person per year. Some grants for
students who need interpreters. Courts accept signed interpretation and pay
for interpreters. Dictionary. Grammar. TV, videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance EthiopianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation EthiopianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%EthiopianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Ethiopia. SIL code: ETH. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: There are several sign languages used in
different schools for the deaf. Little research. Used since 1971. There have
been elementary schools for deaf children since 1956. There is a manual
alphabet for spelling.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance FinnishSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation FinnishSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%FinnishSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Finland. SIL code: FSE. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
5,000 users out of 8,000 deaf persons (1986 Gallaudet Univ.). Alternate names:
VIITTOMAKIELI. Comments: 2 major dialects from the Finnish (17 schools) and
Swedish (1 school) communities. Apparent influence from Swedish Sign Language
merged with local indigenous varieties. Not intelligible with Danish Sign
Language. The government pays interpreters to accompany the deaf to hospitals,
college, church, etc. Signed interpretation required in court. Sign language
instruction for parents of deaf children. Many classes for hearing people.
There is a committee on national sign language. The first deaf school was
founded in the 1850s. Signed Finnish is distinct, but used by some teachers
of the deaf. Dictionary. Grammar. Films, TV, videos. Bible portions 1989.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance FrenchSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation FrenchSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%FrenchSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%France. SIL code: FSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
50,000 to 100,000 primary users in France (1986 Gallaudet Univ.) 1,000 users
of Marseille Sign Language (1975 Sallagooty). Population total both countries
50,000 to 100,000. Region: Southern FSL is used in Marseille, Toulon, La
Ciotat, and Salon de Provence. Also spoken in Togo. Alternate names: LANGUE
DES SIGNES FRANCAISE, LSF, FSL. Dialects: MARSEILLE SIGN LANGUAGE (SOUTHERN
FRENCH SIGN LANGUAGE). Comments: Many sign languages have been influenced by
this, but are not necessarily intelligible with it. Reported to be partially
intelligible with sign languages from Austria, Czech Republic, and Italy, at
least. 43% lexical similarity with American Sign Language in an 872-word list.
First sign language in the western world to gain recognition as a language
(1830). Originated in 1752. Sign languages were known in France in the 16th
century, and probably earlier. Different from Signed French and Old French
Sign Language. Also used in: Togo (Language name: FRENCH SIGN LANGUAGE,
Alternate names: LANGUE DES SIGNES FRANCAISE, LSF). Comments: Taught in 1
school for the deaf in Togo.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance GermanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation GermanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%GermanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Germany. SIL code: GSG. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
(50,000 deaf persons, 22,000 members of German Deaf Association, 1986
Gallaudet Univ.) Region: Western Germany. Alternate names: DEUTSCHE
GEBAERDENSPRACHE, DGS. Comments: Many regional lexical variations, but
dialects are easily inherently intelligible. Some similarity to French and
other European sign languages. Relation to sign languages of eastern Germany,
Austria, and Switzerland is not known. More than one sign language used in
eastern Germany. Bible portions 1998.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance GhanaianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation GhanaianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%GhanaianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Ghana. SIL code: GSE. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No
estimate available. Comments: Related to American and Nigerian sign languages.
Brought in 1957 by missionary Andrew Foster. Differs from American Sign
Language in lexicon. There are new and local signs, and some modified from
ASL. 9 deaf schools. Other deaf people use home signs. Elementary schools for
deaf children since 1957. Sign language interpreters are required for deaf
people in court. Little research. Some sign language classes for hearing
people. There is a manual alphabet for signing. Investigation needed:
intelligibility with American Sign Language, Nigerian Sign Language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance GreekSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation GreekSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%GreekSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of &%Greece. SIL code: GSS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: 42,600 or more users
(1986 Gallaudet Univ.). Comments: 12,000 children and 30,000 active adult
users (1996). Roots in American and French sign languages and various indigenous sign languages, which came together in the 1950s.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance GuatemalanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation GuatemalanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%GuatemalanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Guatemala. SIL code: GSM. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance GuineanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation GuineanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%GuineanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Guinea. SIL code: GUS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Conakry. Comments: Used in the deaf school in
Conakry. Appears to be heavily influenced by, or based on, ASL, with some
influence from French Sign Language. Investigation needed: intelligibility
with American Sign Language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance HaiphongSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation HaiphongSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%HaiphongSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%VietNam. SIL code: HAF. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Haiphong. Comments: Related to sign languages
in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Laos, and earlier sign languages in Thailand.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance HanoiSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation HanoiSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%HanoiSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of &%VietNam. SIL code: HAB. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate
available. Region: Hanoi. Comments: Related to sign languages in Haiphong,
Ho Chi Minh City, Laos, and earlier sign languages in Thailand.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance HausaSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation HausaSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%HausaSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of &%Nigeria. SIL code: HSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate
available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance HawaiiPidginSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation HawaiiPidginSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%HawaiiPidginSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%UnitedStates. SIL code: HPS. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: A few users out of about 6,000 profoundly deaf people in Hawaii
(1987 Honolulu Star-Bulletin), 72,000 deaf or hard of hearing people in Hawaii
(1998 Honolulu Advertiser). Region: Hawaiian Islands. Alternate names: PIDGIN
SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: Bilingualism in American Sign Language. Mainly 70 to
90 years old (1993). 9,600 deaf people in Hawaii now use American Sign
Language with a few local signs for place names and cultural items (1998
Honolulu Advertiser). Nearly extinct.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance HoChiMinhCitySignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation HoChiMinhCitySignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%HoChiMinhCitySignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%VietNam. SIL code: HOS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Ho Chi Minh City. Comments: Related to sign
languages in Hanoi, Haiphong, Laos, and earlier sign languages in Thailand.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance HungarianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation HungarianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%HungarianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Hungary. SIL code: HSH. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
60,000 deaf (1999 National Association for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing). 300,000
hard-of-hearing people use it as second language. Region: Used throughout
Hungary. May also be used in western Romania. Alternate names: MAGYAR
JELVNYELV. Dialects: BUDAPEST, SOPRON, MISKOLC, DEBRECEN, SZEGED, EGER.
Comments: Related to Austrian Sign Language and German Sign Language. May be
related to Yugoslavian Sign Language. Dialects have some different signs for
lexical items, similar or same grammar. All ages. Budapest dialect is viewed
as the standard. Dictionary. Extensive literacy effort needed.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance IcelandicSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation IcelandicSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%IcelandicSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Iceland. SIL code: ICL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: Until 1910 Icelandic deaf people were sent
to school in Denmark. The sign language is based on Danish Sign Language, but
has changed and developed since then, so it is not the same today. Signed
interpretation provided for college students. Instruction for parents of deaf
children. There is a committee on national sign language. There is a manual
spelling system. Dictionary. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance IndianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation IndianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%IndianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%India. SIL code: INS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
1,500,000 or more users (1986 Gallaudet Univ.) Population: total all countries
1,500,000 or more. Region: All over the country. Also spoken in Bangladesh,
Pakistan. Dialects: DELHI SIGN LANGUAGE, CALCUTTA SIGN LANGUAGE,
BANGALORE-MADRAS SIGN LANGUAGE, BOMBAY SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: Over 75% of
signs from all regions are related. Dialects are not related to deaf school
usage. Delhi dialect is the most influential. Not related to French, Spanish,
or American sign languages, or their group. Some influence from British Sign
Language in the fingerspelling system and a few other signs, but most are
unrelated to European sign systems. Developed indigenously in India. The
Indian manual English system is hardly intelligible to American Signed
English. Related to Nepalese Sign Language. Over 1,000,000 deaf adults, and
about 500,000 deaf children (1986). Deaf schools mainly do not use ISL, but
vocational programs often do. Less than 5% of deaf people attend deaf schools.
Investigation needed: intelligibility with Pakistan Sign Language. Also used
in: Bangladesh (Language name: INDIAN SIGN LANGUAGE). Comments: Not related
to French, Spanish, American sign languages, or their group. Some influence
from British Sign Language in the fingerspelling system and a few other signs,
but most signs are unrelated to European sign systems. It developed
indigenously in India. The Indian manual English system is hardly
understandable to American Signed English.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance IndonesianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation IndonesianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%IndonesianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Indonesia. SIL code: INL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
(At least 2,000,000 deaf people, 1993). Comments: 94 schools for the deaf use
the oral method for instruction. A blend of Malaysian Sign Language and
indigenous signs. ASL not used.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance IrishSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation IrishSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%IrishSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of &%Ireland. SIL code: ISG. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate
available. Region: Dublin and elsewhere. Comments: In 1816 British signs were
brought in. In 1846 Irish signs developed in the girls' school, in 1857 Irish
signs brought into the boys' school. Related to French Sign Language. There
are informal male and female sign systems. Females learn the male system
during dating and marriage. The informal system is referred to as 'Deaf Sign
Language'. Irish Sign Language is a new unified system, a manual code for
English. It has structural features such as directional verbs. It has
influenced sign languages in South Africa and Australia. It originated
between 1846-1849. Several deaf schools with 750 to 800 students in each.
There is a committee on national sign language, and an organization for sign
language teachers. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance IsraeliSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation IsraeliSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%IsraeliSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Israel. SIL code: ISL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
5,000 users including some hearing persons (1986 Gallaudet Univ.). Comments:
Not derived from and relatively little influence from other sign languages.
No special signs have been introduced from outside by educators. Minor dialect
variation. Not all deaf use ISL. Interpreters are provided in courts. Some
interpretation for college students. Sign language instruction for parents of
deaf children. Many sign language classes for hearing people. There is a
committee on national sign language, and an organization for sign language
teachers. The sign language used in classrooms and that by deaf adults outside
is different. The first deaf school was established in Jerusalem in 1934. A
fingerspelling system was developed in 1976. Dictionary. Grammar. Employs the
Eshkol-Wachmann movement notation system. Films, TV, videos. Jewish.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance ItalianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation ItalianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%ItalianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Italy. SIL code: ISE. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No
estimate available. Alternate names: LINGUA ITALIANA DEI SEGNI, LIS. Comments:
Partially intelligible with French Sign Language. Not intelligible with
American Sign Language. Regional differences, but signers from different
regions seem to communicate fluently. Used in families, clubs, and schools
outside the classroom, but not in the classroom.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance JamaicanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation JamaicanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%JamaicanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Jamaica. SIL code: JCS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Alternate names: COUNTRY SIGN. Comments: There is no
standardized sign language, but 'Country Sign' differs from region to region.
Signed English is used in at least one deaf school, but students do not
understand many of the function words. It is used for all communication needs
outside the classroom. Many deaf children do not attend school.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance JapaneseSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation JapaneseSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%JapaneseSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Japan. SIL code: JSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
Hearing impaired: 317,000 (1986 Gallaudet Univ.). Alternate names: SHUWA,
TEMANE. Comments: Related to Taiwanese and Korean sign languages. Over 95% of
the deaf understand Japanese Sign Language. 107 deaf schools. The first school
was in Kyoto in 1878. 'Temane' is the former name. Pidgin Signed Japanese is
different. Pidgin Signed Japanese is used often in formal situations,
lectures, speeches. 80% of the deaf understand finger spelling. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance JordanianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation JordanianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%JordanianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Jordan. SIL code:JOS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance KenyanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation KenyanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%KenyanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Kenya. SIL code: XKI. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
Students in primary schools in 1990: 2,600. There are around 200,000 deaf
people in Kenya. It is not known how many know KSL. Region: 32 primary schools
for the deaf in Hola, Kapsabet, Karatina, Karen, Kerugoya, Kilifi, Kisumu,
Kitui, Kwale, Meru, Mombasa, Mumias, Murang'a, Nairobi, Nakuru, North
Kinangop, Ruiru, Sakwa. Schools under the Kenya Institute of Education (KIE)
use a Kenyan version of (American) Exact Signed English, including one at
Machakos. KSL is used at Nyangoma School at Bondo, a primary and boys'
technical school (Sakwa), and in one girl's school. A school in Mombasa uses
British Sign Language. Some Belgian brothers use Belgian Sign language in a
school near Oyugis. 4 churches in Nairobi: 2 use KIE Signed English, 1 a
mixture of that and KSL, the other uses a mixture of Korean, American, and
Kenyan Sign Languages. Comments: Mainly unrelated to other sign languages. It
has become standardized with slight variations since 1961, when elementary
schools for deaf children were begun. The deaf from Kisumu (western Kenya) to
the deaf in Mombasa (eastern Kenya) can understand each other completely even
with some dialect differences. The deaf in Uganda and Tanzania do not really
understand KSL, though they have much in common. Used in court cases involving
deaf people. The Kenya National Association of the Deaf, which has 12
branches. The government is using KIE Signed English. The University of
Nairobi backs KSL. Little research. Communication with those who do not know
KSL is superficial only. KSL fits Kenyan culture and ties students back to
their families and friends who know it. There is a manual alphabet for
spelling. Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance KoreanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation KoreanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%KoreanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%SouthKorea. SIL code: KVK. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: Related to Japanese and Taiwanese sign
languages, but distinct. Used since 1889. Signed interpretation required in
court, used at important public events, in social services programs. There is
sign language instruction for parents of deaf children. Many sign language
classes for hearing people. There is a manual system for spelling. Dictionary.
Elementary schools for deaf children using sign language since 1908. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance KualaLumpurSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation KualaLumpurSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%KualaLumpurSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Malahysia (Peninsular). SIL code: KGI. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Region: Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere in
Peninsular Malaysia. Alternate names: KLSL. Comments: American signs were
introduced in the late 1960s to a class for deaf children. They were promoted
by the club for deaf adults which was started at the YMCA in 1973. Many former
users of Penang Sign Language now use KLSL. Uses predominantly American signs
in a mixture of English and Malay word order. Investigation needed: bilingual
proficiency in Malaysian Sign Language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance LaosSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation LaosSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%LaosSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of &%Laos. SIL code: LSO. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate available.
Comments: Related to sign languages in Viet Nam and earlier ones in Thailand.
May be more than one sign language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance LatvianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation LatvianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%LatvianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Latvia. SIL code:LSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No
estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance LibyanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation LibyanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%LibyanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Libya. SIL code:LBS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No
estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance LithuanianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation LithuanianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%LithuanianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Lithuania. SIL code:LLS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance LyonsSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation LyonsSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%LyonsSignLanguage is a &%DeafSignLanguage
of &%France. SIL code: LSG. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No estimate available.
Comments: 250 miles from Paris, but difficult and little intelligibility with
French Sign Language.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MalaysianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MalaysianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MalaysianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Malahysia (Peninsular). SIL code: XML. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Alternate names: BAHASA MALAYSIA KOD
TANGAN. Comments: It is manually coded Bahasa Malaysia, it is easier than
manual codes for other languages because Bahasa Malaysia is comparatively
noninflected. It has input from local and American signs and structure. Under
development by the Ministry of Education since 1978, and used in government
programs. Words without signs are fingerspelled using the international
version of the American manual alphabet.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MalteseSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MalteseSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MalteseSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Malta. SIL code: MDL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MaritimeSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MaritimeSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MaritimeSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Canada. SIL code: NSR. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward
Island. Alternate names: NOVA SCOTIAN SIGN LANGUAGE. Comments: Now remembered
only by older deaf people. Based on British Sign Language. Distinct from
American and Quebec sign languages. Nearly extinct.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MarthasVineyardSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MarthasVineyardSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MarthasVineyardSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%UnitedStates. SIL code: MRE. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Region: Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.
Comments: The early sign language was based on a regional one in Weald,
England, where the deaf persons' ancestors had lived. French Sign Language was
introduced to Martha's Vineyard in 1817. MVSL was later combined with American
Sign Language, but never became identical to ASL. From 1692 to 1910 nearly all
hearers on Martha's Vineyard were bilingual in English and sign language. The
first deaf person arrived in 1692. From 1692 to 1950 there was a high rate of
hereditary deafness. In the 19th century, 1/5700 of Americans were deaf, 1/155
in Martha's Vineyard, 1/25 in one town, 1/4 in one neighborhood. Extinct.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MexicanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MexicanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MexicanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Mexico. SIL code: MFS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
87,000 to 100,000 mainly monolingual users (1986 T.C. Smith-Stark), out of
1,300,000 deaf persons in Mexico (1986 Gallaudet University). Region: Used
throughout Mexico, except in some American Indian areas (see Yucatec Maya
Sign Language): Mexico D.F. Guadalajara, Monterrey, Hermosillo, Morelia,
Veracruz, Oaxaca, San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, Puebla, Cuernavaca, Torreon,
Saltillo, Toluca. Alternate names: EL LENGUAJE MEXICANO DE LAS MANOS, EL
LENGUAJE MANUAL DE MEXICO, LA LENGUA MANUAL MEXICANA, EL LENGUAJE DE SENAS
MEXICANAS. Comments: Influence from French Sign Language. Users of ASL have
14% intelligibility of MSL. Preliminary investigation indicates lexical
similarities from 85% to 100% among regional dialects, nearly all above 90%
(A. Bickford SIL 1989). Most deaf schools use the oralist method, but some
use signs. At least 3 deaf churches in Mexico City, 3 in Guadalajara. 19
schools for the deaf in Saltillo, Torreon, Guadalajara (3), Mexico City (6),
Morelia, Cuernavaca, Monterrey, Ciudad Obregon, Hermosillo, Villahermosa,
Matamoros, Veracruz, athletic clubs, craft schools, rehabilitation
institutions. It does not follow Spanish grammar. The deaf are called 'sordos,
sordomudos, los silentes.' Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MongolianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MongolianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MongolianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Mongolia. SIL code: QMM. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
Unknown number of users out of 10,000 to 147,330 deaf (1998). Comments:
Different from Russian Sign Language and other sign languages.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MoroccanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MoroccanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MoroccanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Morocco. SIL code: XMS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: Used in Tetouan and other cities. Comments:
Algerian Sign Language has influenced the strong deaf community of 60 to 70
men in the city of Oujda in the north. Less than 50% lexical similarity with
American Sign Language. Most deaf people cannot read or write or understand
Arabic. Many deaf women do not leave their homes, or do not sign in the
streets, so it is difficult to determine numbers. Association Nanane, a
school in the north, had about 30 students, ages 4-21. MSL used in 3 programs
for the deaf. Communities in Rabat, Tangier, and Casa Blanca do not use MSL.
Used by USA Peace Corps. Developed from local signs and introduced signs.
Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance MozambicanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation MozambicanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%MozambicanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Mozambique. SIL code: MZY. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Region: In at least the 3 largest cities: Maputo,
Beira, and Nampula. Comments: Some dialectal variation. Standardization
efforts are in progress (1999). Not related to or based on Portuguese nor
Portuguese Sign Language. Being taught and developed.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance NamibianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation NamibianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%NamibianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Namibia. SIL code: NBS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance NewZealandSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation NewZealandSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%NewZealandSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%NewZealand. SIL code: NZS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: The first school for the deaf was established
in 1878. Sign language used since the 1800s. It developed informally among
deaf people because the oralist method only was used in schools. It has some
features in common with British sign languages and some from other countries.
Some signed interpretation used in court and at important public events. There
is a committee on national sign language. There is a manual system for
spelling. Investigation needed: intelligibility with British Sign Language,
Australian Sign Languages. Dictionary. Grammar. TV.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance NepaleseSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation NepaleseSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%NepaleseSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Nepal. SIL code: NSP. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No
estimate available. Comments: Developed from local signs and introduced signs.
Related to Indian and Pakistan Sign Languages. Used by USA Peace Corps.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance NicaraguanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation NicaraguanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%NicaraguanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Nicaragua. SIL code: NCS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
3,000 deaf users plus other hearing people (1997 Asociacion Nacional de Sordos
de Nicaragua). Region: Managua and throughout the nation. Alternate names:
IDIOMA DE SENAS DE NICARAGUA. Comments: Unrelated to El Salvadoran, Costa
Rican, or other sign languages. Users know little Spanish. Officially used in
school since 1992, and used outside the classroom. Dictionary.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance NigerianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation NigerianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%NigerianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Nigeria. SIL code: NSI. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Comments: Influences from American and Ghanaian sign
languages. Originated in 1960.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance NorwegianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation NorwegianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%NorwegianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Norway. SIL code: NSL. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
4,000 deaf users out of about 4,000 deaf (1986 Gallaudet Univ.). Dialects:
HOLMESTRAND, OSLO, TRONDHEIM. Comments: Intelligible with Danish and Swedish
sign languages with only moderate difficulty. Not intelligible with Finnish
Sign Language. Used since 1815. The first deaf school was begun in 1825, first
club in 1878. It is passed to the next generation mainly through the schools.
3 dialects are associated with 3 schools. Signed Norwegian is used by
teachers, pupils use Norwegian Sign Language among themselves. Signed
interpretation required in court, provided some for college students, in
mental health programs. Sign language instruction provided for parents of
deaf children. Many classes for hearing people. There is a committee on
national sign language. There is a manual system for spelling. Films, TV,
videos.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance OldKentishSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation OldKentishSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%OldKentishSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of the &%UnitedKingdom. SIL code: OKL. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Region: Kent. Comments: The apparent
ancestor of Martha's Vineyard Sign Language. Extinct.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance PakistanSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation PakistanSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%PakistanSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Pakistan. SIL code: PKS. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population:
No estimate available. Alternate names: ISHARON KI ZUBANN. Comments: Related
to Nepalese Sign Language, may be the same language as Indian Sign Language.
Used in urban centers with some regional variation in vocabulary. The
National Institute of Special Education encourages a total communication
approach, including the teaching of PSL. Dictionary. Grammar.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance PenangSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation PenangSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%PenangSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Malahysia (Peninsular). SIL code: PSG. ISO 639-2: sgn.
Population: No estimate available. Region: Penang. Comments: Deaf school
established in 1954, where only oral method was used. Sign language evolved
outside the classroom. Use declined in the late 1970s due to spread of other
sign languages, but there are still users.(extract from http://www.ethnologue.com/)")
(instance PersianSignLanguage DeafSignLanguage)
(documentation PersianSignLanguage EnglishLanguage "&%PersianSignLanguage is a
&%DeafSignLanguage of &%Iran. SIL code: PSC. ISO 639-2: sgn. Population: No