Paraguayan Sign Language

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A language of Paraguay

ISO 639-3
pys
Alternate Names
LSPY, Lengua de Señas del Paraguay, Lengua de señas paraguaya
User Population

15,000 (2009 L. Parks), increasing. Approximately 0.2% of total population.

Location

Scattered.

Language Status

6a (Vigorous).

Classification
Sign language, Deaf community sign language
Language Use

Deaf associations and religious meetings use LSPY in their formal proceedings and deaf people use LSPY in their casual interactions. Used by all. Also use Brazilian Sign Language [bzs], especially some living near the Brazilian border, as L2.

Language Development

Literature. TV. Dictionary. Bible portions: 2011.

Language Resources
OLAC resources in and about Paraguayan Sign Language
Other Comments

Local deaf people indicate that early roots of LSPY were influenced by Uruguayan Sign Language. Deaf generally acquire LSPY from friends during school (outside of the classroom), in deaf associations, or religious meetings.