Take Away in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “take away” in Auslan is used to express the action of removing something from a place or a person. This sign can come in handy when discussing meals, objects, or even feelings that need to be set aside. It’s a straightforward sign that can add clarity to your conversations.

How to Sign “Take Away”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape).
2. Position your hand close to your body, near your chest or stomach.
3. Move your hand outward, away from your body, while keeping the flat handshape.
4. As you move your hand away, add a facial expression that indicates the action of taking something away, such as a slight frown or a determined look.

Common Mistakes

One common error is forgetting to use the correct handshape; using a closed fist instead of a flat hand can change the meaning. Additionally, some may not include the appropriate facial expressions, which can lead to misunderstandings about the intent of the sign. Finally, not moving the hand far enough away from the body can make the sign unclear.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Signifying one dollar in a financial context.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.

Using “Take Away” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Take Away” is commonly used in various everyday conversations, especially when discussing food or plans. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate its use:

• “I want to take away food tonight.” (Sign: I WANT TAKE AWAY FOOD TONIGHT)
• “Can we take away our drinks?” (Sign: CAN WE TAKE AWAY DRINKS?)
• “Let’s order take away for lunch.” (Sign: LET’S ORDER TAKE AWAY FOR LUNCH)

You might find yourself using “Take Away” when discussing meal plans with friends or family, deciding on food options at a restaurant, or when chatting about your favourite local take-away joints.

Cultural Notes

The concept of “Take Away” holds a special place in Australian culture, often associated with social gatherings and community. In the Australian Deaf community, sharing meals from local take-away shops is a popular way to bond and enjoy each other’s company. It’s not just about the food; it’s a cultural experience that fosters connection.

While “Take Away” is recognized across Australia, you might notice slight variations in signing among different regions. In general, northern and southern dialects of Auslan may have unique expressions or nuances, but the core sign remains widely understood. Engaging with local Deaf communities can provide insight into these variations and enrich your signing experience.

Tips for Learning This Sign

To effectively learn and remember the sign “Take Away,” consider the following practical tips:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while signing. This helps you observe your own handshape and movements, ensuring accuracy in your signing.
2. Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language while signing. These non-manual features can enhance the meaning and context of “Take Away.”
3. Use in Short Sentences: Incorporate “Take Away” into simple, everyday sentences during practice. This not only reinforces the sign but also helps you become comfortable using it in conversation.

Consistent practice and immersion in the Deaf community will further enhance your understanding and use of “Take Away” in Auslan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “take away” in a sentence?

You might say, “I will take away the dishes after dinner” using the sign to emphasize the action.

Are there regional variations for this sign?

What are similar signs to “take away”?

Related signs include “remove,” “give,” and “take,” each with its own nuance in meaning.

How does this compare to BSL?

The BSL sign for “take away” differs in handshape and movement, highlighting the unique aspects of each sign language.

What are some teaching tips for this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror, and focus on facial expressions to convey the meaning clearly.