Bust Your Windows 🪟
SEE and ASL comparison- no side is “better”, I make these to show the differences between the two so that you’re aware of what you’re actually using/ learning (if you’re self taught). The deaf community uses both, but ASL is encouraged as it is it’s own language and has a separate grammatical structure that is different from English.
SEE- Signed Exact English- I’m using the signed equivalent of each word, and not changing any signs to fit context.
ASL- American Sign Language- is it’s own official language, unlike SEE, and has a different grammatical structure. I sign the lyrical meaning behind the lines and change signs to fit the context.
Nails by veronique_presson_nails on IG
#seevsasl #signlanguage #jazminesullivan #bustyourwindows #deaf
Having learned both Signed Exact English (SEE) and American Sign Language (ASL), I find that understanding their differences deeply enhances communication, especially with lyrical content like Jazmine Sullivan's 'Bust Your Windows.' SEE involves signing the English words exactly as they appear, which can feel very literal and sometimes less fluid because it follows English grammar strictly. ASL, on the other hand, is a fully developed language with its own syntax and grammar, and it often captures the essence and emotion behind words rather than the direct translation. When interpreting a song like 'Bust Your Windows,' ASL allows me to express the emotional undercurrents—like the heartbreak and anger—by adapting signs to fit the context and lyrical meaning, not just the literal wording. This makes the performance feel more natural and impactful to Deaf audiences who understand ASL as a language of its own. In my experience, many people initially learn SEE because it helps bridge understanding of English in signed form, but for cultural and conversational fluency, ASL is generally more effective and embraced by the Deaf community. It has unique grammar that involves facial expressions and body language, essential for conveying tone and mood. I particularly appreciate how ASL's flexibility accommodates artistic expression in music interpretation, while SEE can sometimes feel rigid. For learners and interpreters, knowing the distinctions helps decide which method fits their goals—whether it's gaining precise English word knowledge or embracing the rich linguistic culture of ASL. This video comparison highlights those nuances beautifully and can be a useful resource for anyone exploring sign language, especially self-taught learners seeking clarity on what they are actually using or learning. Understanding these differences also fosters greater respect for Deaf culture and communication styles.
