1.2.3.1. Non-manual markers in content interrogatives

Content interrogatives of DGS are typically marked non-manually with furrowed eyebrows and a slight head tilt forward, sometimes accompanied by a forward body lean for stronger emphasis.

 

 

These non-manual markings usually spread throughout the whole content interrogative. But it is also possible that non-manual markers spread only over the wh-sign at the end of the interrogative phrase, when the wh-sign is positioned at the end of the phrase.

 

                       wh

         topic what

         โ€˜What is the topic?โ€™

 

 

 

In some cases, raised eyebrows can also accompany content interrogatives, changing the meaning to a notion of disbelief. In these cases, the function of the interrogative sentence is not to get an answer to what is questioned, but rather showing that one canโ€™t believe a specific information about participants or settings, that has already been shared.

 

                                   re

         election win who

         โ€˜Who won the election?!โ€™