Different modes of communication may influence reduction or extension of the sign parameters as well as the dimension of the signing space used for expression of the signs in DGS. In whispering mood typical in the context of gossip, all parameters of the signs as well as the dimension of the signing space are reduced. On the other hand, the size of the signs as well as the signing space are increased when the interlocutors aim to transmit a signed message in a loud mood over distance or to a large audience.
a. Context: Peter is not in the context, but everyone else is discussing buying a present for him and the signer wants to make sure the information is visible for everyone in the room.
(Loud mode)
ix1 present for p-e-t-e-r buy finish
‘I bought a present for Peter.’
b. Context: Peter is in the context and the signer does not want him to see the information about his present.
(Whispering mode)
ix1 present for p-e-t-e-r buy finish
‘I bought a present for Peter.’