From Gesture to Language: The Pragmatic Differences Between “Mimic-Gestural Language” and “Romanian Sign Language”
From Gesture to Language: The Pragmatic Differences Between “Mimic-Gestural Language” and “Romanian Sign Language”
Author(s): Daniela RăducănescuSubject(s): Philosophy, Language and Literature Studies, Theoretical Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Special Branches of Philosophy, Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics, Philosophy of Language
Published by: Editura Universității Tehnice “Gheorghe Asachi” din Iași
Keywords: LSR; pragmalinguistics; non-manual markers; role-shift; communicative identity;
Summary/Abstract: This article provides a linguistic pragmatics analysis of the transition from “mimic-gestural language” to “Romanian Sign Language” (LSR) following its official recognition via Law 27/2020. Drawing on Wilhelm von Humboldt’s philosophical distinction between energeia (language as a creative activity) and ergon (language as a finished product), the study argues that LSR is a natural, autonomous system rather than a mere set of gestures. It examines key pragmatic mechanisms such as role-shift, turn-taking, and the high-context nature of Deaf communication. The research demonstrates that sign language functions through internal structural rigors and essential non-manual markers, even in the absence of exhaustive academic standardization. By shifting the paradigm toward a formal linguistic status, the paper highlights the cultural and communicative identity of the Romanian Deaf community, validating LSR as a complex, living system of human interaction.
Journal: Buletinul Institutului Politehnic din Iași secția Științe Socio-Umane
- Issue Year: 72/2026
- Issue No: 1-2
- Page Range: 23-33
- Page Count: 11
- Language: English
