Chipschippies, French Fries, Potato Chiptipinoun in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “chipschippies, french fries, potato chip” is commonly used in the New Zealand Deaf community when talking about food, especially during social gatherings or when ordering at a restaurant. This sign reflects the love for this popular snack in New Zealand and is often used in casual conversations among friends.

How to Sign “Chipschippies, French Fries, Potato Chiptipinoun” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat handshape (like a ‘B‘ handshape) facing downwards.
2. Place your dominant hand on top of your non-dominant hand, as if you are stacking chips.
3. Move your dominant hand in a small circular motion while maintaining the flat handshape, as if you are mixing the chips.
4. Facial expression should be friendly and relaxed, perhaps with a slight smile to convey enjoyment.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain the flat handshape, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Using a single hand instead of both hands, as this may lead to confusion.
• Not including an appropriate facial expression, which is important in NZSL for conveying emotion.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “chipschippies” involves a specific handshape and movement that differs from ASL. While ASL may have a different sign altogether, NZSL incorporates a unique circular motion with both hands, reflecting local culture and food preferences.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used for addressing multiple people.
• (Baby’S) Dummy – A sign for a baby’s pacifier, often used in family contexts.
• (Be) Careful – A sign for caution, useful in various situations.
• (Be) Passive – A sign that describes a state of being, often seen in discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this sign in a sentence?

Yes! For example, “I would like some chipschippies” can be signed by combining the sign for “I” with the sign for “chipschippies.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in NZ?

Generally, the sign remains consistent across New Zealand, but some regions may have slight variations in hand movement.

What are some similar signs to “chipschippies”?

Signs like “fries” or “snack” could be considered similar, each with its own unique handshape and movement.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movements are correct, and don’t forget to include facial expressions!

Can I use this sign at restaurants?

Absolutely! It’s a great sign to use when ordering chipschippies in a casual dining setting.

Is this sign influenced by te reo Māori?

While the sign itself is unique to NZSL, the influence of te reo Māori is seen in the cultural context of food in New Zealand.