Bad Temper (adjective, 2) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “bad temper” or “bad-tempered” in NZSL expresses feelings of anger or frustration. This sign is commonly used in everyday conversations within the Deaf community to describe someone who is easily angered or to indicate one’s own feelings when losing patience. It’s important to convey the emotion clearly through facial expressions and body language.

How to Sign “Bad Temperbad-Tempered, Get Mad, Lose One’s Temperriri, Pukuririadjective; Verb” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a fist shape, fingers curled tightly.
2. Place your fist near your chin or cheek.
3. Quickly pull your fist away from your face while slightly shaking it, as if expressing frustration.
4. Use your facial expressions to reflect anger or irritation, such as furrowing your brow.
5. Optionally, you can shake your head slightly to emphasize the feeling of anger.

Common Mistakes

• Not using enough facial expression, which can make the sign less impactful.
• Moving the hand too slowly; the sign should be quick to convey sudden anger.
• Using an open hand instead of a fist, which changes the meaning significantly.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “bad temper” typically involves a more pronounced facial expression and a specific hand shape (fist) compared to ASL, where the sign may involve a different handshape and movement, focusing more on the direction of the sign. This reflects the unique cultural influences present in NZSL.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You
• (Baby’S) Dummy
• (Be) Careful

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can say, “He has a bad temper” by signing the person’s name or pronoun, followed by the sign for “bad temper.” For example, “He (pointing) PUKURIRI.”

Are there regional variations in New Zealand for this sign?

While the sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, some regions may emphasize facial expressions differently, so it’s good to observe local usage.

What similar signs should I learn?

Consider learning signs like “angry” or “frustrated,” as they can help express a range of emotions related to temper.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your facial expressions and ensure your movements are quick and clear.

Is there a cultural context to this sign?

Yes, understanding the emotional context is crucial in NZSL; facial expressions play a significant role in conveying the intensity of feelings.

Can children use this sign?

Absolutely! Teaching children signs related to emotions helps them express themselves better, including feelings of anger or frustration.