Angry in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “angry,” “angryanger,” “furious,” or “madriri” conveys strong emotions of anger or frustration. This sign is commonly used in various contexts, whether expressing personal feelings or describing a situation that causes anger. It plays a significant role in everyday conversations among the Deaf community in New Zealand.

How to Sign “Angryanger, Furious, Madriri, Whekeadjective” in NZSL

1. Begin with both hands in a fist shape at chest level.
2. As you express the emotion, move your hands outward, slightly away from your body.
3. Facial expressions are key: furrow your brow and tighten your lips to show the intensity of anger.
4. Optionally, shake your hands slightly as you move them outward to emphasize the strength of the emotion.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in conveying emotions in NZSL.
• Using a flat hand instead of a fist, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not moving the hands outward enough, leading to a less impactful expression of anger.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “angry” involves a specific hand movement and facial expressions that reflect emotional intensity. In contrast, ASL uses a different handshape and motion, often emphasizing the position of the hands in relation to the face. This highlights the unique features of NZSL, influenced by its local culture and context.

Related Signs

• Passive: Represents a lack of action or response.
• Careful: Indicates caution or the need to be careful.
• Caution: Used to warn someone about potential danger.
• (All Of) You: A sign for addressing a group, which can be used in discussions about emotions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “angry” in a sentence in NZSL?

You can sign “angry” while expressing a specific situation, such as “I am angry about the delay,” using appropriate facial expressions and body language.

Are there regional variations of this sign across New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional variations may exist in the intensity of the sign or associated facial expressions.

What is a similar sign to “angry” in NZSL?

“Frustrated” is a similar sign, which also expresses strong emotion but with different hand movements and facial cues.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror, focusing on your facial expressions and hand movements to accurately convey the emotion.

Can I use this sign in a formal setting?

While it is acceptable to use “angry” in formal settings, be mindful of the context and ensure it is appropriate to express such emotions.

How do I express degrees of anger in NZSL?

You can modify the intensity of the sign by changing the speed and size of the hand movements, along with your facial expressions.