And so On, Talk at Length in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “and so on, talk at length” is commonly used in the New Zealand Deaf community to indicate an ongoing discussion or to refer to additional topics without explicitly listing them all. It captures the essence of elaborating on a subject, suggesting that there is more to say. This sign reflects the rich, expressive nature of NZSL, which became an official language of New Zealand in 2006, showcasing its unique cultural identity.

How to Sign “And So On, Talk At Length” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” hand) facing palm up.
2. Place your hand in front of you, at about waist height.
3. Begin to move your hand in a circular motion, gradually making larger circles.
4. While moving your hand, maintain an engaging facial expression, showing that you’re animatedly discussing something.
5. As you finish the circular motion, bring your hand back to the starting position, indicating you’re concluding your thought, but implying there’s more to be said.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions; they are crucial for conveying meaning in NZSL.
• Making the hand motion too small, which can make the sign less effective.
• Not maintaining the correct handshape, as this can lead to confusion with other signs.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “and so on, talk at length” involves a circular movement that emphasizes continuation. In ASL, a different sign is used that does not have the same circular quality. While both languages convey the idea of elaboration, the gestures and nuances differ, reflecting their unique cultural contexts.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer collectively to a group.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – A sign for a baby pacifier, often used in parenting discussions.
• (Be) Careful – A sign to advise caution.
• (Be) Passive – A sign that conveys a state of being non-active or inactive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign when you are discussing a topic and want to indicate there are more points to cover. For example, “We talked about the event, the guests, and so on.”

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

While the basic sign remains consistent, some regions may have slight variations in the movement or emphasis, often influenced by local Deaf communities.

What is a similar sign to use?

A similar sign is “continue,” which can also imply ongoing discussion. However, “and so on” specifically suggests there are more items to list without saying them all.

How can I improve my signing skills?

Practice regularly with Deaf peers, watch NZSL videos, and engage in community events to enhance your signing fluency.

What should I focus on when learning this sign?

Pay attention to the handshape and movement, as well as the facial expressions that accompany the sign, which are vital for conveying the correct meaning.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

Yes, it can be used in both casual and formal conversations, particularly when discussing multiple topics in meetings or presentations.