Are you looking to learn how to say “grandma” in Auslan? Auslan, or Australian Sign Language, is a unique and beautiful language used by the Australian Deaf community. Just like spoken languages, Auslan has different ways to refer to family members, including grandma. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “grandma” in Auslan, providing you with various tips and examples along the way.
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Formal Ways to Say Grandma in Auslan
Formal terms are typically used in more formal or official settings, such as when introducing someone or referring to them in a respectful manner. Here are some formal ways to refer to grandma in Auslan:
- Grandmother: To refer to a grandmother in a formal context, you can sign “GRANDMOTHER.” This sign involves extending both hands in front of you, palms facing up, and then moving them upward in a gentle motion.
- Nana: Another formal term for grandma in Auslan is “NANA.” This sign involves making a closed fist with both hands and then touching your chest with them, representing the loving presence of a grandmother.
- Grandma: The term “GRANDMA” is also used in a more formal setting. To sign grandma, extend your left hand with the palm facing down, and use your right hand in a gentle motion to touch the back of your left hand, representing the connection between a grandchild and a grandmother.
Informal Ways to Say Grandma in Auslan
Informal terms are often used within the family or among close friends. These terms can vary based on regional variations and personal preferences. Here are some popular informal ways to say “grandma” in Auslan:
- Grammy: The term “GRAMMY” is widely used as an informal way to refer to a grandma in Auslan. It involves extending both hands in front of you, palms facing up, and then moving them forward and backward while wiggling your fingers gently, representing the loving and playful nature of a grandma.
- Granny: Another common informal term for grandma is “GRANNY.” To sign this term, make a closed fist with your dominant hand and then place it near your chin while rotating it slightly in a circular motion. This sign symbolizes the wisdom and warmth associated with grandmothers.
- G-Ma: “G-MA” is a modern and slightly informal way to refer to grandma in Auslan. This sign involves placing your left hand on top of your right forearm while making a gentle stroking motion with your right hand over your left hand, representing the nurturing nature of a grandmother.
Tip: When signing “grandma” in Auslan, it’s important to consider the context and preferences of the individual or family you are communicating with. Some families may have their own unique signs or preferences for referring to grandma, so always be open to learning and adapting.
In addition to these formal and informal terms, it’s worth noting that regional variations can exist within Auslan. The sign language used in different parts of Australia may have slight variations in signs and cultural influences. If you are learning Auslan in a specific region, it can be valuable to seek guidance from local Deaf communities or Auslan teachers who can provide insights into any regional variations in signing “grandma.”
Conclusion
Auslan offers a rich and expressive way to communicate with the Deaf community in Australia. When it comes to referring to grandma in Auslan, you have formal options such as “grandmother,” “nana,” and “grandma.” Informal terms include “grammy,” “granny,” and “g-ma.” Remember to respect the cultural and individual preferences of the Deaf community you are interacting with, as some families may have their own unique signs or variations. Embrace the beauty of Auslan and continue to learn and adapt as you communicate with grandmothers in the Deaf community.
Remember, practice is key to mastering Auslan. Spend time with sign language resources, attend classes, or engage with members of the Deaf community to further explore the depths of this beautiful language.
