Ignore in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign “ignore” in Auslan conveys the action of deliberately not paying attention to someone or something. This sign is commonly used in everyday conversations, especially when discussing situations where someone is choosing to overlook an action or comment. It’s a useful expression for both casual and serious contexts.

How to Sign “Ignore”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a flat ‘O’ but with fingers extended) and palm facing towards your body.
2. Position your hand near your forehead, with your fingertips pointing towards your forehead.
3. Move your hand outward away from your forehead, while simultaneously turning your palm to face outward (away from your body).
4. Add a facial expression that conveys indifference or dismissal, such as raising your eyebrows slightly or looking away.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to change the palm orientation, keeping it facing inwards instead of turning it outwards.
• Rushing the movement can lead to a less clear sign; taking your time helps convey the meaning better.
• Neglecting facial expressions can make the sign seem less impactful or unclear in its intent.

Related Signs

• 1 – Represents the number one, a basic counting sign.
• 10 – Represents the number ten, useful in counting contexts.
• 100 – Represents the number one hundred, often used in discussions about money or quantities.
• 11 – Represents the number eleven, often used in numerical contexts.
• 12 – Represents the number twelve, useful in counting and discussions.

Using “Ignore” in Everyday Conversations

The sign for “Ignore” can be used in a variety of everyday contexts, helping to convey feelings of disregard or intentional avoidance. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate its use:

• Friend to friend: “I ignore the noise when studying.” (ignore – noise – study – when)
• In a group discussion: “Sometimes, I just ignore negative comments.” (negative comments – sometimes – ignore)
• During a conversation: “She ignored my advice.” (she – my advice – ignore)

These examples highlight how the sign can naturally come up in conversations about personal experiences, feelings, or group dynamics. Using “Ignore” effectively allows you to express a common sentiment in a relatable way.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, the sign for “Ignore” is not just a simple gesture; it carries nuances that reflect cultural attitudes toward communication and relationships. The act of ignoring can be seen as a form of empowerment, allowing individuals to choose where to focus their attention. This is particularly significant in a community that values direct and honest communication.

Dialect variations exist between northern and southern regions of Australia, but the core sign for “Ignore” remains consistent. However, some nuances in facial expressions and the intensity of the sign may differ, reflecting regional communication styles. Being aware of these variations can enhance understanding and fluency in Auslan.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign for “Ignore” can be made easier with a few fun and effective strategies:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while signing. This helps you see your hand shape and facial expressions, ensuring you’re conveying the correct message.
2. Observe Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to the facial expressions and body language that accompany the sign. These non-manual features are crucial in Auslan, as they add meaning and emotion.
3. Incorporate into Short Sentences: Use “Ignore” in simple sentences as part of your daily practice. For instance, practice with phrases like “I ignore distractions” or “They ignore the rules.” This helps reinforce the sign and its context.

By using these methods, you can enhance your comfort and proficiency with the sign, making it a natural part of your Auslan vocabulary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “ignore” in a sentence?

You can use it in a sentence like, “I will ignore the negative comments.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

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

What are some signs similar to “ignore”?

Signs like “disregard” or “overlook” carry similar meanings and can be used interchangeably in certain contexts.

How does this compare to BSL?

The sign for “ignore” in BSL has a different handshape and movement; it’s always good to learn the variations in different sign languages.

Any tips for teaching this sign?

Encourage learners to practice in pairs, emphasizing the importance of facial expressions to convey the sign’s full meaning.

Can this sign be used in more serious contexts?

Yes, “ignore” can be used in both casual and serious contexts, depending on the accompanying facial expressions and tone.