Take Away Remove in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “take away” or “remove” in Auslan is used to convey the action of taking something from a place or person. It can be used in various contexts, such as asking someone to take something away or indicating that you want something removed. This sign is often helpful in everyday conversations and instructions.

How to Sign “Take Away Remove”

1. Start with your dominant hand open and flat, palm facing down.
2. Position your hand near the object you wish to indicate as being taken away, usually at or near waist height.
3. Move your hand slightly away from the object as if you are physically removing it. This movement should be smooth and deliberate.
4. As you move your hand away, slightly curl your fingers inward to show the action of taking something.
5. Maintain a facial expression that matches the context; for example, look assertive if you are requesting something be removed.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to curl fingers inward during the movement, which can make the sign look incomplete.
• Not maintaining the correct facial expression, which can lead to misunderstandings about the intent of the sign.
• Using too much force in the movement, making it appear aggressive rather than a simple request to remove something.

Related Signs

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

Using “Take Away Remove” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Take Away Remove” is commonly used in various everyday situations. Here are a few example sentences demonstrating how to incorporate it into conversations:

• Situation: Discussing a meal at a restaurant.
  Auslan: “I want (point) to take away remove (sign) the leftovers (sign).”
• Situation: Talking about decluttering your space.
  Auslan: “I need (point) to take away remove (sign) old clothes (sign).”
• Situation: Explaining a chore to a child.
  Auslan: “Please (sign) take away remove (sign) the toys (sign) from the floor (sign).”

These examples illustrate how the sign can be naturally integrated into daily conversations, making it a valuable addition to your Auslan vocabulary.

Cultural Notes

The sign “Take Away Remove” holds significant cultural relevance within the Australian Deaf community. This sign is not just a functional gesture; it embodies the Deaf identity that values clear communication and community interaction. In conversational contexts, using this sign can show respect for a person’s space and belongings, which is an important aspect of Deaf culture.

While Auslan is relatively consistent across Australia, there may be slight variations in how this sign is used in different regions. For instance, some northern areas may have a more fluid signing style, while southern regions might emphasize clarity in the movement. Engaging with local Deaf communities can help learners appreciate these nuances.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign “Take Away Remove” effectively can enhance retention and fluency. Here are some concrete strategies:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror and practice the sign repeatedly. This allows you to observe your movements and ensure they match the correct form.
2. Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language when signing. These non-manual features are crucial for conveying meaning in Auslan.
3. Use in Short Signed Sentences: Incorporate the sign into brief, contextual sentences. Regular use in conversation will reinforce your memory and help you become comfortable with it.

By using these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering “Take Away Remove” and integrating it into your Auslan repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the sign in a sentence?

You can use the sign in sentences like, “Please take away the trash,” or “Can you remove this from the table?”

Are there any regional variations for this sign?

Yes, variations may exist depending on the region or community, so it’s best to observe local users.

Are there similar signs in Auslan?

Yes, signs like “give,” “take,” and “bring” are related, but they convey different actions.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

While BSL may have a different sign for “take away,” some concepts are similar. It’s always good to learn both if interested.

What are some tips for teaching this sign?

Encourage students to practice with objects and use clear facial expressions to convey meaning effectively.