5.1.2. Non-manual discourse markers

In LIS, discourse particles may also be realised through non-manual markers, which can reinforce the meaning of the manual sign or bear independent meaning. The example below shows a case of adversative coordination (SYNTAX 3.1). Note that the discourse particle but is omitted and substituted by a particular use of non-manuals which scope over the adversative clause, specifically, mouth corners down (md).

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                    md

         ix1 dwell rome ix(loc) impossible_no_way ix(loc) milan ix1 accept

         â€˜I coudn’t live in Rome, but I’d be willing to live in Milan.’