Take Issue in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “take issue” in Auslan expresses disagreement or concern about a particular topic or situation. It’s often used in discussions or debates to indicate that someone does not accept a point of view or wants to express a differing opinion. This sign can help facilitate conversations in both formal and informal settings.

How to Sign “Take Issue”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a “flat” handshape (like a flat “B” hand), with your palm facing down.
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, about shoulder height.
3. Move your hand forward a short distance, while simultaneously turning your palm to face upwards.
4. As you make this movement, furrow your brow slightly to show that you are expressing concern or disagreement.
5. Maintain eye contact with your audience to emphasize your feelings about the issue at hand.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in Auslan to convey the emotional tone of the sign.
• Using an incorrect handshape, such as a fist instead of a flat hand, which can confuse the meaning.
• Not moving the hand forward enough, which can make the sign unclear.

Related Signs

• 1 – Represents the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Indicates currency, specifically one dollar.
• 10 – Represents the number ten.
• 100 – Indicates the number one hundred.
• 11 – Represents the number eleven.

Using “Take Issue” in Everyday Conversations

The sign “Take Issue” is often used to express disagreement or to highlight a differing opinion in discussions. Here are a few example sentences that demonstrate how this sign can be integrated into everyday conversations:

• Situation: Discussing a movie with friends.
  Auslan: “MOVIE GOOD, I TAKE ISSUE PLOT.” (I think the movie was good, but I take issue with the plot.)
• Situation: Talking about a policy change at work.
  Auslan: “BOSS SAY CHANGE GOOD, I TAKE ISSUE IMPACT.” (The boss says the change is good, but I take issue with its impact.)
• Situation: During a group debate in class.
  Auslan: “CLASSMATE SAY IDEA SMART, I TAKE ISSUE EXAMPLE.” (A classmate says the idea is smart, but I take issue with the example used.)

These examples show how “Take Issue” can be used to articulate a differing perspective, making it a valuable addition to your conversational Auslan repertoire.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, expressing disagreement or differing viewpoints is an essential aspect of communication. The sign “Take Issue” reflects a cultural emphasis on open dialogue and respectful discussion. In many contexts, it’s considered important to voice differing opinions constructively, contributing to a richer conversation.

Dialectical variations may exist between northern and southern Deaf communities, but the core meaning of “Take Issue” remains the same. While the signs might not differ significantly, facial expressions and non-manual features may vary slightly, so it’s beneficial to engage with local Deaf groups to understand these nuances better.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign “Take Issue” effectively can enhance your Auslan skills. Here are some concrete ways to remember and use it:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror to practice the sign. This helps you observe your own movements and ensure you are forming the sign correctly.
2. Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions while signing. Non-manual features like eyebrow movements can significantly impact the meaning of the sign.
3. Use in Short Signed Sentences: Incorporate “Take Issue” in short, everyday statements. Repetition in various contexts will help solidify your understanding and usage of the sign.

By incorporating these practices into your learning routine, you’ll find it easier to remember and use “Take Issue” confidently in conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use “take issue” in a sentence?

Yes! You might say, “I take issue with the way they presented the information.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

Some regions may have slight variations in the movement or facial expressions used, but the core concept remains the same.

Is there a similar sign in BSL?

Yes, there is a similar sign in British Sign Language, but the handshape and movement may differ.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your facial expressions match your sign, and encourage learners to engage in discussions that allow them to use this sign naturally.

Can this sign be used in formal debates?

Absolutely! It’s a great way to express differing opinions respectfully in any discussion format.

What is the importance of facial expressions in this sign?

Facial expressions add emotional depth and context to the sign, making your disagreement clear and understood.