Understanding in Australian Sign Language (Auslan)

The sign for “understanding” in Auslan conveys the concept of grasping or comprehending information. It’s commonly used in conversations to express that you understand what someone is saying or to check if someone else understands a point being made. This sign helps facilitate clear communication within the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Understanding”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) with your fingers extended and together.
2. Position your dominant hand in front of your forehead, palm facing inward.
3. Move your hand forward slightly from your forehead, as if pushing the understanding out towards the person you are communicating with.
4. Maintain a neutral or slightly positive facial expression to convey clarity and openness.

Common Mistakes

• Not using the correct handshape; ensure your hand is flat and fingers are together.
• Moving your hand too far away from your forehead, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Using a tense facial expression; a relaxed face helps convey genuine understanding.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Using “Understanding” in Everyday Conversations

The sign for “Understanding” is a valuable addition to your Auslan vocabulary, especially in conversations where clarity and comprehension are key. Here are a few examples of how you might use this sign in everyday situations:

• Example 1: “You explain it, I understand.” (YOU EXPLAIN, I UNDERSTAND) – This could come up during a study session or a meeting where one person is clarifying a point.
• Example 2: “They don’t understand the instructions.” (THEY NOT UNDERSTAND INSTRUCTIONS) – This might be used while discussing a group project or when giving directions.
• Example 3: “I want to make sure you understand.” (I WANT MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND) – This can be useful in any teaching or mentoring situation where confirmation of understanding is important.

Cultural Notes

The sign for “Understanding” holds a significant place in the Australian Deaf community, where communication is centered around shared experiences and mutual comprehension. In group settings, such as during community events or social gatherings, using this sign can emphasize the importance of being on the same page with friends and family.

Dialects in Auslan can vary slightly between regions, with some Northern and Southern Australian Deaf communities demonstrating subtle differences in signing. However, the sign for “Understanding” remains relatively consistent across these dialects, making it easily recognizable and widely used regardless of location.

Tips for Learning This Sign

Practicing the sign for “Understanding” can be engaging and effective with these strategies:

1. Mirror Practice: Stand in front of a mirror while practicing the sign. This allows you to see your hand movements and facial expressions, which are crucial in Auslan.
2. Watch for Non-manual Features: Pay attention to facial expressions and body language when using the sign. These non-manual features enhance the meaning and convey additional context.
3. Use in Short Sentences: Incorporate the sign into brief conversations. For example, practice sentences like “I understand you” or “Do you understand?” to enhance retention and fluency.

By consistently practicing these methods, you’ll strengthen your ability to use “Understanding” naturally in conversations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “understanding” in a sentence?

You can say, “I understand,” by signing “I” followed by the sign for “understanding.”

Are there regional variations for this sign?

Yes, some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression, but the general concept remains the same.

What are some similar signs to “understanding”?

Signs like “know,” “learn,” and “comprehend” have similar meanings and can be used in related contexts.

How does this sign compare to BSL?

While the concept is similar in BSL, the handshape and movement may differ. It’s beneficial to learn both for broader communication.

What tips do you have for teaching this sign?

Encourage students to practice in pairs, emphasizing facial expressions and hand movements for clarity.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

Absolutely! It’s appropriate in both casual and formal conversations to indicate understanding.