Sign, signified and signifier…what do they mean?

Sign is a 2 factor psychological idea : concept and sound-image. These are two factors that are united. Sign is not a physical thing but more of a psychological imprint of the sound, that leaves an impression on our senses. For instance, we are able to talk to ourselves or recite mentally without the need of moving our lips. Furthermore, we have the ability to remember the ”material’s” name because of the sound-image that was already imprinted in our mind. In simpler terms, a sign is a physical marker that gives some information that is precise and brief. Generally, it is opposed to the actual symbol.

Example:
Human hand being waved = saying hi or goodbye (the meaning will vary depending on the context)

Signifier is the word which signifies, it only refers to the word.

Example:
TREE – in this case (the written word) is the signifier, what you hear when you are saying the word TREE is the signifier

While, signified is the concept or the mental image

Adding on to the previous example:
When we hear the word TREE, a photo of a tree will show in our minds

This is can be connected to communication design because we use symbols, signs and different visuals to inform and communicate.