What is a Semiverbal Person?

What defines a semiverbal person? I know it's a bit broad, but I'm specifically focusing on consistent behavior rather than losing speech when overstimulated. I experience a consistent difficulty speaking that manifests in a lot of different ways, but to keep it short I find it takes a lot of energy and focus to speak, and sometimes I'm completely unable to respond to things with anything other than single syllable words of acknowledgement to show I'm listening (yeah, huh, nice, etc.). Even when in settings where I have enough time to process (which does help significantly) I find myself pausing a lot, and though I probably sound coherent to others the words usually don't come out how I want them to and there are times when I have to keep correcting myself. Long story short: could I be semiverbal and why? I've had people tell me this sounds like being semiverbal, but I also want to know the details since there isn't much information that I can find.

Your answer

AnimalBoy

1y ago

I mean losing speech while overstimulated is also considered a part of being semi nonverbal and is consistent behavior assuming it's that patterned, but the rest of what you said is also pretty similar to what I feel/other semi non verbal people talk about feeling. Mine is very noticeable because I usually talk too much if I'm not actively nonverbal, so people will often either get one worded responses, often stuttered/mispronounced, and sign language or I'm telling you an entire story to respond to a simple question.

ikigali

1y ago

I'm semiverbal as well. I don't talk outside the house, and if I do, it's always 1 word of replies. Like the other person said, only you can define yourself. If you feel that this label fits how you feel, then that's it. Maybe look into situational/selective mutism as well. 🙏

faustmare

1y ago

Do you feel the label fits you? That's what is most important. Ultimately no one can define exactly what it is that each autistic person experiences, right? Because they're all different experiences. If you feel the word "semiverbal" describes your experience well, then use it. If anyone has told you otherwise, then that's gatekeeping. Only you know what you feel! ♡

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