How are facial expressions used in ASL?

• A. Represent grammatical information, such as questions
• B. Show the beginning and ends of linguistic units, such as sentences and topics
• C. Both A and B
• D. They have no role in ASL

Answer: (C)

Facial expressions in ASL function as essential non-manual markers that carry grammatical meaning. They signal what kind of sentence is being signed, such as a yes/no question or a WH-question, through changes in eyebrow position, eye gaze, and head movement. At the same time, these facial cues help mark the boundaries of linguistic units—where a sentence begins and ends and where a topic shifts—so the listener can parse the structure accurately. For example, raising the eyebrows and tilting the head slightly often accompanies a yes/no question, signaling that a simple yes or no answer is expected, while a different brow configuration and forward head tilt can indicate a WH-question that asks for a specific piece of information. Because facial expressions serve both the grammatical function and boundary signaling, the best answer is that they do both.