To determine how many different base signs are used to sign DRIZZLE, RAIN, HEAVY-RAIN, and DOWNPOUR, we need to analyze the concepts involved in these terms.
- DRIZZLE typically indicates light rain; the corresponding base sign might symbolize this lighter precipitation.
- RAIN represents more consistent rainfall and may have its own distinct base sign.
- HEAVY-RAIN indicates a stronger precipitation and may have another base sign separate from the previous two.
- DOWNPOUR suggests very heavy rainfall, which may also have a unique sign.
Generally, in sign languages, different intensities or types of weather conditions can have distinct representations.
Given that we are mentioning four types of rain-related weather, it's likely that each of these would have different base signs due to the difference in intensity or nature:
- DRIZZLE
- RAIN
- HEAVY-RAIN
- DOWNPOUR
Thus, it is reasonable to conclude that there are 4 different base signs used to sign the terms listed.
The answer to your question would be: 4.