ASL Classifiers

semantic classifier (SCL)

function as pronouns that replaces a noun or as a noun and verb combined

ex. 1 person, 2 people, standing person, bent classifier 2 as an animal

descriptive classifier (DCL)

describe a shape, size, texture, or a pattern

instrumental classifier (ICL)

how an object is used

ex. a tool, holding a book, cutting with a knife, pushing a button, lifting a jar lid, and pulling a nail

element classifiers (ECL)

describes properties related to water, wind, air, and fire

locative classifier (LCL)

indicates the location of something or the position relative to another

it shows the pathline of the object and its movement or distance

body classifier (BCL)

uses the upper frontal body to refer to a part of the body

body part classifier (BPCL)

using a hand, or arm to show parts of the lower body like legs, knee, back, or feet

plural classifier (PCL)

plural symbol of a noun or subject

ex. manta ray group, or birds flying