Empty (Place) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
The sign for “empty” in NZSL conveys the idea of a place being deserted, unoccupied, or vacant. This sign is often used when describing locations that are empty or when indicating that no one is present in a particular area. It’s a useful sign for everyday conversations within the Deaf community in New Zealand.
Table of Contents
How to Sign “Empty (Place)Deserted, No-One There, Unoccupied, Vacantwātea, Tū Kauadjective; Negator; Pronoun” in NZSL
- Start with both hands open, palms facing down.
- Position your hands in front of your body, about shoulder-width apart.
- As you express the sign, move your hands outward and slightly apart while keeping your palms facing down.
- Maintain a neutral facial expression or lightly raise your eyebrows to indicate the meaning of emptiness.
Common Mistakes
- Using a closed fist instead of an open hand, which can change the meaning of the sign.
- Moving the hands too quickly, making the sign unclear.
- Forgetting to incorporate appropriate facial expressions, which are critical for conveying meaning in NZSL.
NZSL vs ASL
In NZSL, the sign for “empty” involves a specific handshape and movement that may differ from ASL. While ASL also conveys the idea of emptiness, the hand movements and positions can vary significantly. It’s always beneficial to learn and practice the signs in their respective contexts to grasp these differences effectively.
Related Signs
- (All Of) You
- (Baby’s) Dummy
- (Be) Careful
- (Be) Passive
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign in a sentence?
Yes, you might say “The room is empty” using the sign for empty to indicate the room’s state.
Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?
While the core sign remains consistent, some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement. It’s good to observe local usage.
What other signs are similar to “empty”?
Signs such as “vacant” and “unoccupied” might share similarities in context or usage, but their specific signs can differ.
How can I practice this sign?
Practice in front of a mirror and get feedback from fluent NZSL users to refine your technique.
Is this sign influenced by te reo Māori?
Yes, NZSL has been influenced by te reo Māori, and many signs incorporate Māori concepts and gestures.
What should I focus on when learning this sign?
Pay close attention to hand positioning, movement, and facial expressions, as these are key components in NZSL.
Practice This Sign
Try signing Empty (Place)Deserted, No-One There, Unoccupied, VacantwāTea, Tū Kauadjective; Negator; Pronoun with your camera and get AI coaching on your handshape, movement, and location.
Free · No signup required