Blush, Embarrassed in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “blush,” “embarrassed,” or “flushed” in NZSL expresses feelings of shame or embarrassment. It’s often used in social contexts when someone feels self-conscious or shy. This sign beautifully captures the emotional state of feeling flushed, making it relatable within the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Blush, Embarrassedashamed, FlushedpāHanahana, WhakamāVerb” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ handshape.
2. Position your hand near your face, about an inch away from your cheek.
3. Gently move your hand away from your face, as if your cheeks are expanding.
4. Incorporate a facial expression that shows embarrassment or shyness—crinkle your nose and slightly raise your eyebrows.
5. Optionally, you can also shake your head slightly to emphasize the feeling of being embarrassed.

Common Mistakes

• Not using appropriate facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the emotion.
• Holding the hand too far from the face, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Using a different hand shape, such as a fist instead of the flat ‘B’ handshape.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “blush” focuses on the movement away from the face and the facial expressions used. In contrast, ASL uses a different hand shape and movement that may not convey the same emotional nuance. This highlights the unique characteristics and cultural expressions found within NZSL.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to address a group of people.
• (Baby’S) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier used for babies.
• (Be) Careful – A sign expressing caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a sentence?

You could say, “I felt so embarrassed at the party,” by signing “I” + “feel” + “blush.”

Are there regional variations in NZ for this sign?

The sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, but some regions may have slight variations in the hand movement.

What are some similar signs to “blush”?

Related signs include “shy” and “embarrassed,” which also convey similar feelings.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your facial expressions match the emotion you want to convey.

Can this sign be used in a humorous context?

Yes, it can be used light-heartedly among friends when joking about embarrassing moments.

What if I can’t get the facial expression right?

Keep practicing! Facial expressions are key in NZSL, and you’ll improve with time and effort.