In which scenario is fingerspelling typically used?

Fingerspelling is commonly utilized when a sign does not exist for a particular word or concept. This technique allows individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to spell out words using the manual alphabet. It becomes especially useful for terms that are new, technical, or specific, such as names of places, people, or specialized vocabulary that may not have a corresponding sign in American Sign Language (ASL) or other sign languages.

While fingerspelling can be used for proper nouns, it is not limited to that context alone, which disqualifies the perspective of an answer focused strictly on proper nouns. Similarly, while fingerspelling can theoretically replace synonyms, it is more commonly employed to address the absence of a sign for a specific concept rather than to substitute existing signs. Finally, fingerspelling is not specifically designed for communication in noisy environments; other strategies may be more effective in those scenarios. Overall, fingerspelling serves as an essential tool for clarifying communication when familiar signs are unavailable.