Naturally in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “naturally” in Auslan expresses the concept of something being inherent or instinctive. It is often used in conversations about behaviors, instincts, or characteristics that seem to come effortlessly or without much thought. This sign can enhance your storytelling and discussions about nature or personal traits.

How to Sign “Naturally”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (similar to a “B” handshape).
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, palm facing down.
3. Move your hand slightly outward and upward in a smooth arc.
4. As you perform the movement, maintain a relaxed facial expression, showing the ease of the concept.
5. Finish with your hand returning to the starting position, but keep your fingers slightly spread to emphasize the natural flow.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain a relaxed facial expression, which is crucial in conveying the meaning of “naturally.”
• Using an incorrect handshape; ensure your hand is flat and not in a fist or other shape.
• Rushing the movement; the sign should flow smoothly to reflect the concept of being natural.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Using “Naturally” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Naturally” can be incorporated into various everyday conversations, emphasizing authenticity or instinctive behavior. Here are a few examples where this sign might come up:

1. When discussing a friend’s behavior: FRIEND BEHAVE NATURALLY, IT’S THEM.
2. In a conversation about how someone excels at a skill: HEARER SING NATURALLY, SO BEAUTIFUL.
3. When expressing that something is a common reaction: PEOPLE REACT NATURALLY TO GOOD NEWS.

These examples illustrate how “Naturally” helps convey a sense of ease and authenticity in various contexts.

Cultural Notes

Within the Australian Deaf community, the sign “Naturally” holds significance beyond its literal meaning. It often reflects the cultural values of authenticity and self-expression. Deaf individuals may use this sign to affirm their identity and experiences, particularly in discussions about their natural communication style, which is often visual and expressive.

While Auslan is relatively uniform across Australia, there are some regional variations. In certain northern areas, the sign may be accompanied by different non-manual features, such as facial expressions that emphasize warmth or friendliness, which can enhance the meaning of “Naturally.” In contrast, southern regions might use a more neutral expression.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Naturally,” consider the following tips:

• Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while practicing the sign. This allows you to see your own movements and ensure you’re forming the sign correctly.
• Observe Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to the facial expressions and body language that accompany the sign in various contexts. These features can provide additional meaning and enhance communication.
• Use in Sentences: Incorporate “Naturally” into short, meaningful sentences during practice. For example, share a story about a friend or a personal experience where you felt something was instinctive or authentic.

Regular practice and integration into everyday conversations will help reinforce your understanding and use of the sign “Naturally.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “naturally” in a sentence?

You can say, “She naturally excels in music,” using the sign to emphasize her innate talent.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

While the core sign remains the same, there may be slight variations in movement or facial expressions among different Auslan communities.

What are some signs similar to “naturally”?

Signs like “instinctively” or “naturally gifted” convey related concepts and can be used interchangeably depending on the context.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

In BSL, the sign for “naturally” may differ, reflecting the unique characteristics of each sign language. It’s beneficial to learn both for broader communication.

What tips can help me teach this sign effectively?

Encourage students to practice with a partner, focusing on facial expressions and smooth movements to capture the essence of “naturally.”