Complicated in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “complicated” is used to describe situations, concepts, or tasks that are difficult to understand or manage. It’s commonly employed in conversations to express feelings of confusion or complexity, whether in academic, work, or everyday contexts within the Deaf community.

How to Sign “Complicated” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) facing downwards.
2. Position your hands in front of your chest, approximately shoulder-width apart.
3. Move your hands in a circular motion towards each other, gradually bringing them closer together.
4. As your hands meet, slightly raise your eyebrows and tilt your head to convey the complexity or confusion of the situation.

Common Mistakes

• Using a single hand instead of both hands can make the sign unclear.
• Not using facial expressions appropriately may lead to misinterpretation of the sign’s meaning.
• Moving the hands too quickly can cause the sign to lose its intended meaning of “complicated.”

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “complicated” involves a circular motion with both hands, while in ASL, the sign uses a different handshape and movement. Understanding these differences can help learners appreciate the unique characteristics of NZSL.

Related Signs

• (Be) Careful – Sign to express caution in a situation.
• (Be) Passive – Used to indicate a state of being without active involvement.
• (All Of) You – A sign for addressing a group of people.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Referring to a pacifier for infants.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Discussing the act of childbirth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “complicated” in a sentence?

You can use it like this: “This math problem is complicated” by signing the phrase with the sign for complicated at the end.

Are there regional variations of this sign in NZ?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional variations may exist, particularly in how exaggerated the hand movements are.

What are some signs similar to “complicated”?

Signs like “difficult” or “confusing” may convey a similar meaning in context, but each has its own unique sign.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your hand shapes and facial expressions match the intended sign.

Can I use “complicated” in casual conversations?

Absolutely! It’s a versatile sign that fits well in both formal and informal discussions.

How does “complicated” relate to other signs?

Understanding related signs can enrich your vocabulary. For example, “difficult” is often used in similar contexts.