Age, How Old?pakeke, E Hia Ō Tau?adjective; Noun in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “age, how old? Pakeke, e hia ō tau?” is an essential part of everyday conversation in the New Zealand Deaf community. It’s commonly used when asking someone about their age or when discussing age in relation to others. Understanding this sign can help facilitate engaging discussions and social interactions.

How to Sign “Age, How Old? Pakeke, E Hia ō Tau? Adjective; Noun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand near your chin, with your fingers pointing towards the ground.
3. Move your hand downwards and away from your face while maintaining the “B” handshape.
4. As you move your hand, raise your eyebrows slightly and tilt your head forward to indicate you are asking a question.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL to convey the question.
• Not maintaining the correct handshape throughout the sign.
• Moving the hand too quickly, which can make the sign unclear.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “age, how old?” is distinct from ASL. While ASL often uses a different handshape and movement, NZSL incorporates unique regional features and facial expressions that play a significant role in the sign’s meaning.

Related Signs

• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Discusses the beginning of life.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – A sign used when talking about infants and their needs.
• (Be) Careful – A sign to express caution.
• (All Of) You – Used for addressing a group.
• (Be) Passive – Relates to being in a state of rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use the sign in sentences like “How old are you?” or “She is five years old.” Just remember to incorporate the facial expressions to indicate the question.

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

While the core sign remains consistent across New Zealand, some regional variations in facial expressions may occur, reflecting local Deaf culture.

What are some similar signs to “how old?”

Similar signs include “age” and “young.” These can also be used in conversations about age but may have different contexts.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are correct. Watching video demonstrations can also be very helpful.

Can I use this sign for any age?

Yes, this sign can be used for asking about any age, whether for children, adults, or seniors.

What if I’m unsure about someone’s age?

If unsure, you can use the sign more generally to inquire about their age without specifying, accompanied by an inquisitive facial expression.