Buildingapartment Block, Skyscraperwharenoun in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “building, apartment block, skyscraper” in NZSL represents various types of structures commonly found in urban environments. It is frequently used in discussions about housing, city planning, or when giving directions in the Deaf community. Understanding this sign can enhance communication about living spaces and architectural features.

How to Sign “Buildingapartment Block, Skyscraperwharenoun” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘B’ handshape (fingers together and extended, palm facing down).
2. Position your hands in front of your body, about shoulder-width apart.
3. Bring your hands together, moving them upwards in a smooth, gentle motion to indicate the height of a building.
4. As you raise your hands, slightly tilt your head back and raise your eyebrows to convey the idea of height, as this adds emphasis to the sign.

Common Mistakes

• Using a closed fist instead of the flat ‘B’ handshape, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not using facial expressions, which are important for conveying the sign’s meaning, especially regarding height.
• Moving the hands too quickly, making it hard for the viewer to understand the gesture’s intent.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “building” emphasizes the height by moving the hands upwards, which is distinct from ASL. In ASL, the sign may incorporate different hand shapes and movements that focus more on the structure’s outline rather than its height. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL and its cultural context.

Related Signs

• Apartment – A sign representing a single housing unit within a larger building.
• House – Refers to a standalone residential building.
• Building – A general term for any constructed structure.
• Skyscraper – Specifically indicates a very tall building.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this sign be used in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you can say, “I live in a skyscraper,” by combining the sign for “I,” “live,” and “skyscraper.”

Are there any regional variations in this sign across New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in hand movement or facial expressions based on local Deaf culture.

What is a similar sign to this?

A similar sign would be “house,” which has a different hand shape but is also used to discuss living spaces.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions, and try to watch native signers for context.

Is this sign used in other contexts?

Yes, it can be used metaphorically to discuss anything that has a structure, such as a “team” or “organization,” especially in a metaphorical sense.

How can I incorporate this sign into everyday conversation?

Use it when discussing your living arrangements, planning a visit to a city, or mentioning tall buildings during conversations about urban landscapes.