Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “How are you?” in Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN). Whether you are learning AUSLAN for communication purposes, exploring sign languages, or simply interested in expanding your knowledge, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we will walk you through both formal and informal ways of asking how someone is doing in AUSLAN, with various tips and examples to help you along the way.
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Formal Greetings in AUSLAN
Formal greetings are commonly used in professional settings, when meeting someone for the first time, or when addressing people in positions of authority. Here are a couple of formal ways to ask “How are you?” in AUSLAN:
1. HOW YOU FEEL?
This is a formal way to ask about someone’s well-being. It is commonly used in situations where you aim to show respect or when addressing someone you don’t know on a personal level.
2. YOU WELL?
Similar to the previous phrase, this is an alternative way to ask about someone’s general condition or health. It is a formal question used when you want to use succinct and straightforward language.
Informal and Casual Greetings in AUSLAN
Informal greetings are used amongst friends, family members, or in casual social settings. They often reflect a more relaxed tone and establish a sense of familiarity. Here are a couple of informal ways to ask “How are you?” in AUSLAN:
1. HOW YOU GOING?
This is a commonly used question in everyday conversation. It is a casual way to ask how someone is doing and often used amongst friends, peers, or acquaintances. The sign for “going” is made by extending your dominant hand forward in a relaxed wave motion with your fingers slightly curled.
2. WHAT’S UP?
Although not a direct translation of “How are you?” this phrase is often used informally to inquire about someone’s well-being. It is more colloquial and can be used amongst close friends or peers. The sign for “what” is made by forming an ‘X’ with your index fingers crossed and touching your chest, followed by the sign for “up” created by raising your open hand with palm facing upward.
Regional Variations
Australia is a vast country, and AUSLAN can have some regional variations influenced by local culture and dialects. However, when it comes to asking “How are you?”, these regional variations are not significant. The signs mentioned above are widely understood and accepted across the country.
Additional Tips and Examples
1. Non-Manual Markers: Remember, while signing “How are you?”, your facial expressions and body language convey vital non-manual markers in AUSLAN. Maintain a relaxed yet concerned expression to express empathy and genuine interest.
2. Follow-Up Questions: To deepen a conversation, you can follow up by asking additional questions such as “How has your day been?”, “What’s new with you?”, or “Anything exciting happening?” This helps to show further interest and demonstrates active engagement in the conversation.
3. Responses: Be prepared for different responses when asking “How are you?” People may reply with phrases like “I’m good,” “I’m fine,” or “Not too bad.” It’s important to listen carefully and show interest in their response, just like you would in a spoken conversation.
4. Practice with Native Signers: If you have the opportunity, practicing AUSLAN with fluent signers, attending workshops, or joining sign language communities can greatly enhance your proficiency. Immersing yourself in the language and culture facilitates a deeper understanding of the nuances and enhances your signing skills.
Remember, learning any language, including sign languages, takes time, patience, and practice. Sign languages are dynamic and expressive, rich in culture and communication. By learning how to ask “How are you?” in AUSLAN, you are taking a positive step towards inclusive and inclusive communication.
We hope this guide has been helpful to you on your AUSLAN journey. Happy signing!
