Different, Assortment, Differences, Variety in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “differentall sorts, assortment, differences, variety, varioustūmomo, momoadjective” is used to express the concept of variety or differences among things in the New Zealand Deaf community. It’s often used in discussions about preferences, choices, or when talking about a group of diverse items or people.

How to Sign “Differentall Sorts, Assortment, Differences, Variety, VarioustūMomo, Momoadjective” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘5‘ handshape, fingers extended and spread apart.
2. Hold your hands in front of you at about chest height.
3. Move both hands outward, slightly away from each other, as you turn your palms up.
4. As you move your hands, shake them gently to convey a sense of variety.
5. Maintain a facial expression that reflects curiosity or excitement, as this enhances the meaning of variety.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to use facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL to convey emotions and nuances.
• Focusing too much on hand movement without ensuring the hands are in the correct shape may lead to misunderstandings.
• Not using the outward movement properly, which may result in a sign that looks too static and doesn’t express variety.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “different” involves a specific handshape and movement that reflects the concept of variety. In contrast, ASL uses a different handshape and a more singular motion to convey a similar idea. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL, which has been influenced by British Sign Language (BSL) and incorporates elements of te reo Māori.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – Used to refer to a group of people.
• (Be) Careful – A sign that expresses caution.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier for infants.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Used in discussions about childbirth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “There are different types of fruits,” while using the sign to emphasize the variety of fruits available.

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

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

What are some similar signs to “different”?

Signs like “same” and “unique” express contrasting or related concepts and can be used to describe differences and similarities.

What tips can you give for learning this sign?

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

How do I know if I’m signing this correctly?

Getting feedback from a fluent NZSL user can help. You can also watch videos of native signers to compare your signing style.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

Yes, this sign is appropriate for both casual and formal conversations, especially when discussing diverse topics.

Are there any cultural considerations when using this sign?

Be mindful of context and audience, as discussing variety can be sensitive in certain cultural discussions, especially regarding identities and preferences.