Been To, Have Experience Of, Done That, Touch, Visit in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “been to, have experience of, done that, touch, visit” conveys the idea of having personal experience or familiarity with a place or situation. This sign is commonly used in conversations within the Deaf community to share experiences and to connect with others through shared knowledge. It reflects a rich cultural exchange that is a vital part of Deaf life in New Zealand.

How to Sign “Been To, Have Experience Ofbeen With, Done That, Touch, Visittae, KāTahi Anō Ka Mahiverb” in NZSL

1. Begin with your dominant hand in a flat shape, fingers together (similar to the open hand shape).
2. Position your hand near your chin, palm facing inwards.
3. Move your hand forward slightly, away from your face, while maintaining the flat shape.
4. As you move your hand, use your facial expressions to convey a sense of familiarity or experience. A nod or a raised eyebrow can emphasize your connection to the experience.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the meaning and emotional context of the sign.
• Using a fist instead of a flat hand, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not moving the hand away from the face enough, making the sign unclear.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “been to” involves a flat hand moving forward from the chin, while in ASL, the sign may differ in hand shape and movement. NZSL has its own unique signs influenced by the local culture and language, including elements from te reo Māori.

Related Signs

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “I have been to the beach” by using the sign after mentioning the beach in your sentence.

Are there regional variations of this sign in NZ?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional dialects may have slight variations in hand movement or facial expressions.

What are some similar signs?

Similar signs include “visited” or “experienced,” which can convey related meanings in different contexts.

Any tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your hand position and facial expressions are clear and accurate.

What if I’m unsure about my signing?

Don’t hesitate to ask a fluent NZSL user for feedback. The Deaf community is usually very supportive of learners.

Can children learn this sign?

Absolutely! Children can learn NZSL signs easily through play and interaction with Deaf peers or family members.

Is this sign used in formal settings?

This sign is versatile and can be used in both casual conversations and more formal settings, depending on the context.