What a line can say: Investigating the semiotic potential of the connecting line in data visualizations

The line is a graphical element widely used in data visualizations, its purpose often being to signal a connection between other visual elements. Based on social semiotic theory, this article investigates what semiotic functions connecting lines can have and how these functions can be related to variations in form. The results show that, in addition to the basic function of connecting elements, such lines can also indicate the level of certainty, direct the viewer to read the information either as a narrative or a conceptual claim, indicate patterns of cohesion, and regulate the viewer’s position. These findings allow for further empirical research on the formation of visual conventions.