Lagging in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “lagging” in Auslan refers to a situation where someone is falling behind or not keeping up with a certain pace, whether in conversation, activities, or tasks. It’s commonly used in various contexts, such as in school settings, group discussions, or during sports. Understanding this sign can help convey feelings of frustration or concern when someone is not keeping up.

How to Sign “Lagging”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) with your palm facing down.
2. Position your dominant hand slightly in front of your chest.
3. Move your hand downward and slightly away from your body, as if indicating something is falling back or trailing behind.
4. While performing the movement, maintain a concerned facial expression to emphasize the meaning of lagging.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which can lead to a misunderstanding of the sign’s emotional context.
• Using the wrong handshape; ensure that you are using a flat handshape for clarity.
• Moving the hand too quickly, which can make the sign less clear and harder to understand.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – The sign used for indicating one dollar.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign denoting one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “lagging” in a sentence?

You can say, “I noticed she is lagging in her studies,” by signing the phrase with emphasis on “lagging” to convey your concern.

Are there regional variations of this sign?

There may be slight variations in the sign depending on the region, but the basic concept remains the same across Auslan users.

What are some signs that are similar to “lagging”?

Signs for “slow,” “behind,” or “falling behind” could convey similar meanings and are often used in related contexts.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

BSL may have a different sign for “lagging,” so it’s beneficial to learn the specific signs used in each language.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Use visual aids and real-life examples to demonstrate scenarios where someone might be lagging, encouraging students to practice in context.

Can I use this sign in informal settings?

Yes, “lagging” is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal conversations when discussing someone’s pace or performance.

What is the importance of facial expressions with this sign?

Facial expressions add emotional depth to the sign, helping convey the seriousness or light-heartedness of the situation.