Tall in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “tall” in Auslan is used to describe height, often in reference to people, buildings, or objects. It’s commonly used when comparing heights or discussing someone’s stature. This sign can also be a part of various sentences that talk about physical characteristics.

How to Sign “Tall”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like the palm of your hand facing down).
2. Position your hand vertically in front of you, with fingers pointing upwards.
3. As you move your hand upwards, maintain the flat handshape to indicate the height.
4. Facial expressions should convey the meaning; a raised eyebrow can emphasize that you are describing something as tall.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may confuse the sign for “tall” with the sign for “big.” Ensure the handshape and movement reflect vertical height rather than size.
• Raising the hand too high can distort the meaning. The focus should be on the height relative to the subject being described.
• Forgetting to include appropriate facial expressions can make the sign less effective in communication.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Indicates a single dollar amount.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – Represents one hundred.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Using “Tall” in Everyday Conversations

The sign for “tall” can be very useful in everyday conversations, especially when describing people or objects. Here are a few example sentences that illustrate how to use this sign naturally:

• “My brother TALL” (referring to a sibling and highlighting their height).
• “That building TALL” (pointing to a structure and emphasizing its height).
• “The tree TALL in the park” (indicating a specific tree and its impressive size).

These examples often come up in discussions about family, architecture, or nature. Using “tall” in context helps convey visual information effectively, making your conversation more engaging.

Cultural Notes

The concept of height is often significant within the Australian Deaf community, particularly when discussing sports or activities where height may give a competitive advantage, like basketball or volleyball. The sign for “tall” can also reflect social aspects, such as admiration or recognition of someone’s stature. It’s important to be aware of the context in which you’re using the sign, as it can carry different meanings based on the conversation.

While Auslan is relatively consistent across Australia, some regional dialect variations may exist. For instance, in some northern areas, the sign might be accompanied by slightly different facial expressions or non-manual features compared to southern regions. Being attuned to these nuances can enhance communication and foster deeper connections within the community.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign for “tall” can be fun and effective with a few simple strategies:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while making the sign. This allows you to observe your handshape and movement, ensuring you’re practicing correctly.
2. Watch for Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions when signing “tall.” Using an appropriate expression can add emphasis and clarity to your meaning, reinforcing what you want to convey.
3. Use in Short Signed Sentences: Create simple sentences incorporating “tall” and practice them regularly. For example, “My friend TALL” or “That hill TALL” helps solidify your understanding and application of the sign.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “tall” in a sentence?

You can say, “That building is tall” by signing “building” followed by “tall.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

Is there a similar sign for “big”?

Yes, the sign for “big” uses a different handshape and movement, focusing on size rather than height.

How does this compare to BSL (British Sign Language)?

The sign for “tall” in BSL is different; it often involves a different handshape and movement.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Use visual aids and encourage students to practice with real-life examples to understand better the context of “tall.”