Undecided in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “undecided” in Auslan expresses uncertainty or indecision about a choice or situation. It can be used in various contexts, such as when discussing personal decisions, opinions, or plans. This sign is a great way to convey your feelings when you’re still weighing options.

How to Sign “Undecided”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (palm facing down).
2. Hold your hand in front of your chest at about shoulder height.
3. Gently rock your hand back and forth while keeping your fingers together.
4. Accompany the sign with a facial expression that shows uncertainty or contemplation, such as raising your eyebrows.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use appropriate facial expressions, which are crucial in conveying the meaning of the sign.
• Using the wrong hand shape; ensure your dominant hand is in a flat ‘B’ shape.
• Not rocking the hand enough; the movement should be subtle but clear to indicate indecision.

Related Signs

• 1 – Represents the number one.
• 1 Dollar – Sign for one dollar.
• 10 – Represents the number ten.
• 100 – Sign for one hundred.
• 11 – Represents the number eleven.

Using “Undecided” in Everyday Conversations

The sign for “undecided” can be quite useful in casual conversations, especially when discussing choices or opinions. Here are a couple of example sentences where this sign is naturally employed:

• Context: Choosing a restaurant
  “I am undecided (undecided sign) about where to eat tonight.” This situation often arises when friends are trying to make plans and can’t agree on a place.
• Context: Voting or making group decisions
  “I feel undecided (undecided sign) about the election candidates.” This reflects the uncertainty that many might feel during political discussions.

Using “undecided” in these contexts helps convey your uncertainty clearly and can encourage more open dialogue.

Cultural Notes

In the Australian Deaf community, the concept of being “undecided” often goes beyond just choice; it can reflect the importance of collective decision-making. In many situations, Deaf individuals may discuss options with peers, valuing input from others before coming to a conclusion. This communal approach is deeply rooted in Australian Deaf culture, where collaboration and shared experiences are prioritized.

It’s also interesting to note that while Auslan is generally consistent across Australia, there can be slight variations in signs and expressions between northern and southern regions. However, the sign for “undecided” is widely understood and used consistently across the country.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign for “undecided” can be engaging and fun. Here are some effective methods:

• Mirror Practice: Use a mirror to practice your signing. This helps ensure that your hand shape and movements are accurate, while also allowing you to observe your facial expressions, which are crucial in Auslan.
• Focus on Non-Manual Features: Pay attention to your facial expressions when signing “undecided.” A furrowed brow or a questioning look can enhance the meaning of the sign and convey uncertainty more effectively.
• Use in Short Signed Sentences: Create short sentences that incorporate “undecided.” For example, practice sentences like “I am undecided about the party” or “They are undecided on the plan.” This will help reinforce the sign in context.

By integrating these tips into your practice routine, you’ll find it easier to remember and use the sign “undecided” in everyday conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “undecided” in a sentence?

You might say, “I am undecided about what to have for lunch,” which can be signed as “LUNCH I UNDECIDED.”

Are there regional variations of this sign?

Yes, different regions may have slight variations in hand shape or movement, so it’s beneficial to observe local signers.

What similar signs should I know?

Related signs include “decided” and “sure,” which express certainty and resolution, contrasting with “undecided.”

How does this sign compare to BSL?

In BSL (British Sign Language), the sign for “undecided” may look different, but the concept remains similar, highlighting the importance of context.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage learners to focus on the movement and facial expressions, as these are key to conveying the meaning of indecision.