The Interplay Between Iconicity and Arbitrariness in Italian Sign Language (LIS) Idioms: A Theoretical Proposal for the Analysis of Signed Idioms
Abstract
This paper investigates the relationship between iconicity and arbitrariness in the comprehension of idioms in Italian Sign Language (LIS). Unlike spoken language research on this topic, this study includes monomorphemic signs, offering a broader perspective on the phenomenon. The research explores how LIS idioms convey meaning through the visual-manual modality: the central proposal is that iconic features aid in the literal interpretation of signs, whereas arbitrary features facilitate the comprehension of idiomatic or figurative meanings – emphasizing the inherently simultaneous and visual-spatial nature of sign language expression.
Submitted: May 14, 2025 | Accepted: July 3, 2025 | Published Oct. 14, 2025 | Language: en
Keywords Iconicity • Arbitrariness • Idioms • Idiomatic expressions • Italian Sign Language (LIS)
Copyright © 2025 Pietro Rigo. This is an open-access work distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction is permitted, provided that the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. The license allows for commercial use. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
Permalink http://doi.org/10.30687/AnnOc/2499-1562/2025/14/005