Auslan, the sign language of the Australian Deaf community, is a rich and expressive language with its own unique signs and grammar. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “go away” in Auslan, both formally and informally. We’ll also provide tips, examples, and touch upon regional variations if necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Go Away” in Auslan
Formal gestures and signs are typically used in professional settings or when speaking to someone of higher authority. Here are some formal ways to express the concept of “go away” in Auslan:
1. Gesture: Point Away Politely
One of the simplest ways to indicate for someone to go away politely in Auslan is by using a non-offensive gesture. Extend your arm, with your palm facing outward, and point in the direction you want the person to move away from. Maintain a calm expression and body language to convey your message firmly yet respectfully.
2. Sign: PLEASE LEAVE
To sign “please leave” in Auslan, follow these steps:
- Extend your non-dominant hand, palm facing up, in front of your chest.
- Using your dominant hand, with a flat palm and fingers together, swipe from the center of your non-dominant hand towards the fingertips, as if shooing something away.
- Exaggerate the movement slightly to convey the intensity of the message.
Example: When addressing an unruly audience member, the speaker signed, “PLEASE LEAVE” to deter any disturbance.
3. Phrase: I WOULD KINDLY REQUEST YOU TO DEPART
For a more formal approach, you can use the phrase “I would kindly request you to depart” to convey the message. While this phrase may not be a direct translation, it follows the etiquette of formal language in Auslan.
Remember, in formal situations, maintaining respect and professionalism is crucial. It is important to ensure your body language, facial expressions, and tone align with the formality of your message.
Informal Ways to Say “Go Away” in Auslan
Informal or colloquial signs are used in casual conversations or among friends and acquaintances. Here are a few common ways to express “go away” informally in Auslan:
1. Gesture: Swiping Motion with Hand
A simple and commonly used gesture to tell someone to go away informally is by making a swiping motion with your hand, as if you are pushing something away.
2. Sign: GET OUT OF HERE
The sign for “get out of here” in Auslan is widely understood in informal settings. Follow these steps to sign it:
- Extend your dominant hand, palm facing down, and fingers spread apart.
- Make a quick upward movement as if you are pushing something away.
- Ensure your facial expression and body language match the informality of the sign.
Using this sign conveys a sense of urgency or annoyance, so it’s important to consider the context and your relationship with the person you are signing to.
Regional Variations
Given the vast expanse of Australia, there may be slight regional variations in the way “go away” is expressed in Auslan. Different signing communities across the country may have their own signs or gestures, influenced by local dialects or cultural factors.
It is always best to consult with local Deaf communities or resources specific to the region you are in to learn any regional variations or preferences.
Tips for Effective Communication
When using Auslan to convey the message of “go away,” here are a few tips to ensure effective communication:
- Maintain eye contact with the person you are signing to.
- Use appropriate facial expressions and body language to reflect the tone and context of your message.
- Keep your gestures or signs clear and distinct to avoid confusion.
- Always be respectful, regardless of whether the situation is formal or informal.
- Practice regularly and seek opportunities to interact with the Deaf community to improve your Auslan skills.
In Conclusion
Auslan provides various ways to express the idea of “go away,” allowing individuals to effectively communicate their desires without relying on spoken language. The choice of whether to convey the message formally or informally depends on the context and your relationship with the person you are signing to.
Remember to use the appropriate gestures, signs, and phrases, depending on the situation, and always be mindful of regional variations or preferences. Auslan is a dynamic language that continues to evolve, so staying connected with the Deaf community and being open to learning new signs and expressions is essential.
By following the tips and examples provided in this guide, you can confidently navigate the use of Auslan to express the concept of “go away” while maintaining respect and effective communication.
