Warlpiri Sign Language facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Warlpiri Sign Language |
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|---|---|
| Rdaka-rdaka | |
| Region | North Central Desert, Australia |
| Native speakers | None |
| Language family | |
Warlpiri Sign Language, also known as Rdaka-rdaka (meaning hand signs), is a special sign language used by the Warlpiri people. They are an Aboriginal community living in the central desert area of Australia. This sign language is one of the most detailed and well-studied among all Australian Aboriginal sign languages.
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Why Warlpiri People Use Sign Language
Many Aboriginal groups in Australia use sign languages. These are often used alongside their spoken languages. Warlpiri Sign Language, along with Warumungu Sign Language, is very well developed. It's almost as complete as the spoken Warlpiri language itself.
One main reason for its wide use is a special tradition. Warlpiri widows traditionally do not speak during a mourning period. This period can last for many months or even years. During this time, they communicate only by using sign language.
Who Uses Warlpiri Sign Language Most?
In Warlpiri communities, women often use the sign language more than men. This is especially true for older women in places like Yuendumu. They use Warlpiri Sign Language all the time, even when they are not under a speech ban.
However, everyone in the community understands it. People might use signs when they don't want to speak. This could be while hunting, for private talks, or when talking across long distances. They also use it when they are sick or when talking about very important topics. Many Warlpiri people also use signs along with their spoken words.
How Warlpiri Sign Language Works
A British language expert named Adam Kendon studied Warlpiri Sign Language. He believes it's like a hand version of the spoken Warlpiri language. This means the signs often represent parts of spoken Warlpiri words. The signs are also put in the same word order as the spoken language.
However, some parts of spoken Warlpiri are not signed. For example, signs don't show how words change for grammar cases or time. But, some signs do show directions, which is similar to how spoken Warlpiri verbs can show direction.
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