Centimetrecmhenemita, Mitaraunoun in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign “centimetrecmhenemita, mitaraunoun” is used in the NZ Deaf community to refer to the metric unit of length known as a centimetre. This sign is commonly used in educational settings, discussions about measurements, and everyday conversations when discussing height, length, or dimensions.

How to Sign “Centimetrecmhenemita, Mitaraunoun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) with fingers extended and together.
2. Hold your hand horizontally in front of your body at about chest height.
3. Move your hand slightly forward and back while maintaining the flat handshape.
4. Make sure to keep a neutral facial expression or a slight nod to indicate you’re providing information.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain the flat handshape, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Not moving the hand forward and back, which is an important part of the sign that indicates measurement.
• Using the wrong hand position, such as a closed fist instead of a flat hand, which can change the meaning entirely.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “centimetre” is distinct from ASL. While both use hand shapes to represent the concept of measurement, NZSL emphasizes the flat handshape and the forward and backward movement, whereas ASL may use a different handshape and motion to convey the same meaning. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL influenced by its cultural context and the Deaf community in New Zealand.

Related Signs

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “centimetre” in a sentence?

You can use it in a sentence like, “My height is 170 centimetres,” which would be signed as “MY HEIGHT 170 CENTIMETRE.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, some regions may have slight variations in movement or hand positioning. It’s beneficial to learn from local signers.

What is a similar sign to “centimetre”?

The sign for “metre” is similar but typically involves a larger hand movement to indicate the longer measurement.

Can I combine “centimetre” with other signs?

Yes, you can combine it with other signs for clarity, especially when discussing measurements in context, like height or width.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movements are correct, and ask for feedback from experienced signers.