Abominable in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “abominable” in Auslan is used to describe something that is extremely unpleasant or loathsome. This sign might come in handy when discussing characters from stories, movies, or simply expressing strong disapproval of an idea or situation.

How to Sign “Abominable”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat, open position, palm facing down.
2. Place your hand near your forehead to represent a “monstrous” expression.
3. Quickly move your hand away from your forehead while twisting your wrist, as if you are pushing away something distasteful.
4. Facial expressions are key; show disgust or disapproval to emphasize the meaning of the sign.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are essential in conveying emotions in Auslan.
• Using an incorrect hand shape; ensure your hand is flat and open throughout the sign.
• Moving the hand too slowly; the sign should have a swift movement to indicate strong feelings.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Used to indicate one dollar in financial discussions.
• 10 – Represents the number ten in various contexts.
• 100 – Sign for one hundred, commonly used in counting or financial matters.
• 11 – The sign for eleven, important in numerical contexts.

Using “Abominable” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Abominable” can be effectively used in various everyday contexts, especially when discussing feelings, opinions, or experiences. Here are a few example sentences:

• “That movie was abominable, I didn’t enjoy it at all.” – This might come up in a conversation after watching a film.
• “The weather today is abominable, it’s so cold and windy!” – Use this in discussions about the weather, particularly during winter.
• “His behaviour at the party was abominable, everyone was uncomfortable.” – This can be relevant when talking about social situations or events.

In these conversations, “abominable” conveys strong negative feelings or opinions, making it a powerful addition to your Auslan vocabulary.

Cultural Notes

The term “abominable” may resonate differently within the Australian Deaf community, where expressive communication is valued. The use of this sign can reflect cultural attitudes towards various topics, such as art, weather, or social behaviour. In discussions about films or literature, for instance, the sign not only describes the content but also indicates a shared cultural understanding of what is socially acceptable or entertaining.

While Auslan is relatively consistent across Australia, there can be slight regional variations in the signing of “abominable.” Northern and southern dialects may have different non-manual features or facial expressions to accompany the sign, which can change the intensity or context of its meaning. Being aware of these variations can enhance communication and understanding within the community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Mastering the sign “abominable” involves practice and observation. Here are some tips to help you learn and remember it:

1. Mirror Practice: Use a mirror to watch your own signing. This helps ensure you are using the correct hand shape and movements.
2. Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions and body language when signing “abominable.” These features add depth to your message.
3. Incorporate in Short Sentences: Try using “abominable” in various short sentences during practice sessions. This contextual use will help solidify your understanding and recall of the sign.

Regular practice with these methods will help you feel more confident using “abominable” in conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “abominable” in a sentence?

You can sign “abominable” to describe a character in a story, like “The abominable snowman is scary.”

Are there regional variations of this sign?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression.

What are similar signs to “abominable”?

Signs like “bad,” “ugly,” and “hideous” convey similar meanings and may be used in related contexts.

How does this sign compare to British Sign Language?

While there may be some similarities, the sign for “abominable” in BSL may differ significantly in hand shape and movement.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage learners to practice facial expressions and to use real-life examples to create context around the sign.