Deduct, Subtract, Subtraction, Take Away, Take From, Take Out (Māori: tangohia, ka tango) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “deduct, subtract, subtraction, take away, take from, take out” in NZSL is commonly used in mathematical contexts or when discussing finances. It conveys the action of removing something from a total, and is an essential concept in everyday conversations, especially in educational settings. This sign can also be expressed in te reo Māori as “tangohia” or “ka tango.”

How to Sign “Deduct, Subtract, Subtraction, Take Away, Take From, Take Out” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like the palm of your hand facing down).
2. Place your hand near the opposite side of your body, just above the waist level.
3. Move your hand away from your body, slightly downward, while keeping the flat handshape.
4. As you move, use a facial expression that reflects the action of taking something away, such as a slight frown or concentrated look.
5. Finish the movement by bringing your hand to a stop at about shoulder height, indicating the completion of the action.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the flat handshape, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Not incorporating facial expressions, which are crucial in conveying the meaning of the sign.
• Inconsistent movement; ensuring a smooth and deliberate motion is important for clarity.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “deduct” involves a flat hand moving away from the body, while in ASL, the sign may involve different handshapes and movements that can vary significantly. This reflects the unique development of NZSL influenced by British Sign Language (BSL) and local cultural elements.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer to a group of people.
• (Be) Careful – A sign indicating caution or the need to be careful.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier for infants.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Discusses the concept of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use it like this: “I will deduct $10 from my budget,” which can be signed by using the sign for deduct followed by your budget amount.

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

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

What are similar signs to “deduct”?

Signs like “take away” or “remove” are conceptually related and may share some similarities in hand movements.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

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

Can I use this sign in formal contexts?

Yes, it’s appropriate in both formal and informal settings, especially when discussing finances or mathematical concepts.

Is this sign used in other sign languages?

While similar signs may exist in other sign languages, each has its own unique sign for the concept based on cultural context.