Auslan vs American in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “Auslan vs American Sign Language” is used to compare and contrast the two distinct sign languages. This sign is often used in discussions about linguistic differences, cultural variations, and educational contexts between the Deaf communities in Australia and the United States.

How to Sign “Auslan Vs American”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” hand) and hold it in front of your chest, palm facing down, to represent “American Sign Language.”
2. Move your hand slightly to the right while maintaining the same handshape to indicate the transition from “American” to “Auslan.”
3. Next, switch your dominant hand to an “A” handshape (a fist with the thumb resting alongside the fingers) and place it in front of your chest, palm facing down, to represent “Auslan.”
4. Lastly, raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward to convey that you are comparing the two languages, emphasizing the contrasting aspects.

Common Mistakes

• Confusing the handshapes for “Auslan” and “American Sign Language,” leading to unclear communication.
• Not using facial expressions effectively, which can diminish the contrast being conveyed.
• Rushing through the sign without clear movements, making it difficult for others to understand the comparison.

Related Signs

• (Auslan) – The sign for Australian Sign Language, often discussed alongside ASL.
• 1 – The number one, often used in counting fingers in sign languages.
• 10 – The number ten, useful in numerical comparisons.
• 100 – The number one hundred, often used in discussions about statistics in Deaf culture.
• 12 – The number twelve, useful in various contexts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a sentence?

You can say, “I am learning about Auslan vs American Sign Language,” using the sign to emphasize the comparison.

Are there regional variations of this sign?

While the general sign is consistent, some regional variations may exist based on local dialects in the Deaf community.

Are there similar signs in BSL?

Yes, British Sign Language has its own signs for Auslan and American Sign Language, but they may differ in handshape and movement.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Practice with a partner to ensure clarity and understanding. Use visual aids to demonstrate the differences between the two languages.

Can I use this sign in casual conversation?

Absolutely! This sign can be used in both casual and formal discussions about sign language.

What context is this sign most useful?

This sign is particularly useful in educational settings, discussions about language diversity, and when meeting Deaf individuals from different countries.