Beautiful (adjective) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign “beautifulattractive, delicious, exquisite, gorgeous, handsome, lovely, pretty” (ātāahua, purotu) is used in the New Zealand Deaf community to express admiration for someone’s appearance or the appeal of something, such as food. This sign captures a sense of aesthetic pleasure and is often used in social contexts to compliment or describe something delightful.

How to Sign “Beautifulattractive, Delicious, Exquisite, Gorgeous, Handsome, Lovely, PrettyāTaahua, Purotuadjective” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape (fingers together, palm facing out).
2. Position your hand near your chin or cheek, close to your face.
3. Move your hand slightly away from your face while maintaining the ‘B’ shape.
4. As you move your hand, express a smile and a sense of admiration on your face.

Common Mistakes

• Rushing the movement can lead to unclear signing; take your time to convey the beauty of the sign.
• Forgetting to include facial expression, which is crucial for conveying emotion in NZSL.
• Using an incorrect hand shape; ensure your fingers are together and in a flat ‘B’ position.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “beautiful” involves a flat hand moving away from the face, accompanied by facial expressions that convey admiration. In contrast, ASL utilizes a different handshape and movement to express beauty, often requiring a more elaborate gesture. This reflects the unique characteristics of each sign language influenced by their cultural contexts.

Related Signs

• Gorgeous – A sign expressing a high level of beauty.
• Lovely – Used to describe something that is delightful and charming.
• Pretty – A simpler sign for expressing visual appeal.
• Attractive – Often used in the context of physical appearance.
• Delicious – A sign to describe tasty food.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “This cake is beautiful” by signing “cake” followed by the sign for “beautiful.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in NZ?

Generally, this sign is consistent across New Zealand, but some regional dialects may have slight variations in movement or speed.

What are some similar signs to learn?

Consider learning related signs like “gorgeous” and “lovely,” which can enhance your vocabulary for compliments.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are clear and effective.

Can this sign be used for both people and objects?

Yes, it can describe both a person’s appearance and the appeal of objects like food or scenery.

How important is facial expression when signing?

Facial expression is crucial in NZSL as it adds meaning and emotion to the sign, helping convey admiration.