Confused on syntax

Question

I’m really confused because I’m watching a video that explains syntax and she says TOPIC COMMENT REFERENT, but on the asl app they sign it as standard English grammar. So that SHOULD mean the app is wrong right? For EX the app shows “I want to learn ASL” as I WANT LEARN ASL and the video shows ASL LEARN I WANT. What is the deal in this situation

Answer 1

ASL has a somewhat flexible word order. Topic Comment word order may be used for emphasis but it is not the standard, everyday word order for simple declarative sentences. Taking your example the following are acceptable and may depend on the intent or emphasis the signer has.

ME WANT LEARN ASL ME (simple declarative)

ASL, WANT LEARN ME (Topic/comment) putting emphasis on "It is ASL and not some other language that I want to learn.

LEARN ASL, WANT ME. (Topic comment structure) emphasizes the learning of ASL.

All of these are grammatical and which one to use depends on the context and the intent of the speaker. Topic comment is similar to the English structure "Speaking of ASL, I want to learn it."

English speakers wouldn't routinely walk around speaking like that but there would be situations where it would be appropriate.

Hope this helps.