Empty (adjective, 3) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “empty, deserted, no-one there, nothing left, unoccupied, vacant” conveys a sense of absence or emptiness. It’s commonly used in everyday conversation within the NZ Deaf community to describe places that are not inhabited or items that are no longer present. This sign reflects the shared experiences of the community and can evoke strong imagery in storytelling.

How to Sign “Emptydeserted, No-One There, Nothing Left, Unoccupied, Vacantkautahangaadjective” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in an open palm position, fingers spread apart.
2. Hold your hand in front of you at chest height, palm facing outward.
3. Move your hand away from your body slowly while keeping your fingers spread.
4. As you move your hand, slightly tilt your head and raise your eyebrows to show that you are emphasizing the emptiness.
5. Complete the sign by bringing your hand back to the starting position for clarity.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners might forget to use facial expressions, which are critical in NZSL for conveying meaning.
• Not keeping the hand shape (open palm) consistent can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Moving the hand too quickly may make it difficult for others to understand the sign.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “empty” uses an open palm moved away from the body, while in ASL, the sign often involves a different handshape and movement. This highlights how NZSL incorporates unique elements influenced by its own cultural context and the Deaf community in New Zealand.

Related Signs

• Occupied – Describes a space that is currently in use.
• Full – Represents something that is completely filled.
• Empty – A more general sign for something that lacks contents.
• Deserted – Specifically used for places that are abandoned.
• Vacant – Indicates a space that is available and unoccupied.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign to describe a location, e.g., “The house is empty,” by signing “House” followed by the sign for “empty.”

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

Generally, this sign remains consistent across New Zealand, but some variations in movement speed may occur based on personal style.

What are similar signs I should know?

Related signs include “empty,” “vacant,” and “deserted,” each with nuances in meaning, so it’s good to learn them all.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Watching native signers can also help!

Can this sign be used in storytelling?

Yes, using this sign can vividly enhance storytelling by depicting empty spaces or feelings of abandonment.

How can I improve my facial expressions while signing?

Facial expressions are crucial in NZSL. Try practicing with emotions in mind, and watch videos of fluent signers for inspiration.