Take Away Symbol in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “take away symbol in Auslan” conveys the action of removing or taking something away. It’s often used in contexts where items are being cleared or removed, whether in conversation about objects, food, or even abstract concepts like ideas. This sign is helpful for expressing the action clearly in everyday communication.

How to Sign “Take Away Symbol”

1. Start with your dominant hand open, fingers together, and palm facing downwards.
2. Position your hand near the object you are mimicking being taken away, keeping your fingers together and your thumb extended.
3. Move your hand away from the object in a smooth, outward motion, as if you are lifting it away.
4. As you move your hand, maintain a neutral or slightly focused facial expression to convey the action clearly.
5. End the motion with your hand at a comfortable distance from the initial position of the object.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may drop their fingers apart, which can change the meaning. Keep fingers together for clarity.
• Moving the hand too quickly can make the sign hard to understand. Aim for a smooth and controlled motion.
• Neglecting facial expressions can lead to confusion; remember that facial cues are important in ASL.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – A sign indicating a one-dollar amount.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign indicating one hundred.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Using “Take Away Symbol” in Everyday Conversations

The “Take Away Symbol” is commonly used in various everyday conversations, especially when discussing food, dining options, or preferences. Here are a few example sentences where this sign can be naturally integrated:

• Friend asking about dinner: “Want to eat out or Take Away?” (SIGN: “DINNER” + “EAT OUT” + “TAKE AWAY”)
• Ordering food: “I will Take Away a pizza.” (SIGN: “I” + “WILL” + “TAKE AWAY” + “PIZZA”)
• Discussing plans: “Let’s get Take Away for lunch.” (SIGN: “LET’S” + “GET” + “TAKE AWAY” + “LUNCH”)

These examples illustrate how the sign can be seamlessly woven into discussions about meals, allowing for clear communication and expressing preferences in social situations.

Cultural Notes

The “Take Away Symbol” holds significance in the Australian Deaf community, reflecting not just a practical aspect of dining but also social interactions. In many Deaf social circles, sharing meals, whether at home or at restaurants, is an essential part of building relationships and community. The use of this sign often comes with a sense of camaraderie, as meals are frequently enjoyed together.

Dialectal variations may exist between Northern and Southern Australian Deaf communities. While the base sign remains consistent, some regional differences in non-manual signals or facial expressions can enhance the meaning or emotional context of the sign. Being aware of these subtleties can enrich communication and foster deeper connections.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the “Take Away Symbol” can be enjoyable and effective with a few simple techniques:

1. Mirror Practice: Use a mirror to watch your own movements. This helps you ensure that your handshape, placement, and motion are correct.
2. Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions and body language when signing. Non-manual features can add emphasis and clarity to your sign.
3. Use in Short Sentences: Incorporate the sign into everyday phrases. This repetition will help reinforce your memory and improve your fluency. Try using it in conversations with friends or during practice sessions.

By engaging with the sign in these ways, you’ll enhance your learning experience and make the process enjoyable!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can say, “Please take away the dishes,” by using the sign while expressing the request.

Are there regional variations of this sign?

While the basic sign is widely understood, there may be slight variations in movement or emphasis based on the region.

What are some similar signs?

Signs like “remove” or “give back” have similar movements but differ in intent and context.

How does this compare to BSL?

British Sign Language (BSL) has a different sign for “take away,” focusing more on the action rather than the object.

What are some tips for teaching this sign?

Encourage learners to practice in pairs and to focus on facial expressions to enhance understanding.

Can I use this sign for abstract concepts?

Yes, you can use this sign metaphorically, such as “taking away negativity” in a conversation.