1. Sign Structure:
* DGS: Uses a more symmetrical sign structure, with handshapes and movements often mirrored on both hands.
* BSL: Often uses asymmetrical signs, with one hand acting as the "active" hand and the other providing support or context.
2. Grammar:
* DGS: Employs a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) word order, similar to spoken German.
* BSL: Uses a Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) word order, more akin to spoken English.
3. Vocabulary:
* DGS: Contains many signs that are directly translated from spoken German, with some signs adapted from other European Sign Languages.
* BSL: While it incorporates some signs from other languages, it has developed its own unique vocabulary, including many signs that are not directly translated from spoken English.
4. Handshapes:
* DGS: Often uses more intricate and varied handshapes than BSL.
* BSL: Employs simpler handshapes, with a focus on clarity and ease of execution.
5. Facial Expressions and Body Language:
* DGS: Signers use a wide range of facial expressions and body language to convey grammatical information and nuances of meaning.
* BSL: Also relies heavily on facial expressions and body language, but the specific usage and meaning can vary from DGS.
6. Influence:
* DGS: Has been influenced by French Sign Language (LSF) and other European Sign Languages.
* BSL: Has been influenced by American Sign Language (ASL) and other Sign Languages from the British Commonwealth.
7. Mutual Intelligibility:
* DGS and BSL: These languages are not mutually intelligible, meaning signers of one language cannot understand the other without learning it.
8. Regional Variations:
* DGS: Some regional variations exist within DGS, but they are generally considered to be relatively minor.
* BSL: Has more regional variations, with distinct dialects developing in different parts of the UK.
It's important to remember that these are just some of the key differences between DGS and BSL. Both languages are rich and complex, with their own unique systems of communication and cultural significance.