Words not signed

Words that sign language might not sign. Generally, the meaning is derived from the way signs are made. See for example and.

Generally conjunctions, articles, and prepositions. Some examples:

And *

Or

But

For

Nor

Yet

So

Until

Since

Unless 

Whether 

A

An

The

To

At

Of

By

For

In

On

With

Because (conjunction)

Because of (preposition)

The preposition to as in going to is included in the sign for going by making the sign slower.

Another example: when signing “my country” and “in my country.” Both use the same signs but the latter is made slower. This is a rule made to be broken when greater understanding is needed.

*and. Example: You and I, Rapid connection of the two signs you, I. This way both signs become one sign.

—-Source: “Sign Language of the North American Indians” Garrick Mallory page 490.

Proposition definition

A function word that typically combines with a noun phrase to form a phrase which usually expresses a modification or predication.

Example: Give me a drink of water

Sign: water give me.

“a drink of” is not signed! 

Source: Antonio, son of Antonio Azul, Chief of the Pimas in Arizona. —-Source: “Sign Language of the North American Indians” Garrick Mallory page 484.