England in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “England,” “Englishingarangi,” or “Ingarihinoun” is used within the NZ Deaf community to refer to both the country of England and the English language. It’s common in conversations about travel, culture, or when discussing the English language itself. This sign reflects the unique blend of cultural influences in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), which became an official language in 2006, and showcases its connections to British Sign Language (BSL) and te reo Māori.

How to Sign “England, Englishingarangi, Ingarihinoun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat “B” handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand near your forehead, with the fingers pointing towards your face.
3. Move your hand away from your forehead and slightly to the side, maintaining the “B” handshape.
4. As you move your hand, your facial expression should be neutral or slightly inquisitive, which adds context to the sign.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain the “B” handshape during the movement.
• Using a flat hand instead of the specific “B” shape, which can change the meaning.
• Not using facial expressions, which are important for conveying the right context in NZSL.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “England” has a distinct handshape and movement compared to American Sign Language (ASL), where the sign typically involves a different hand configuration and motion. This highlights the variations across sign languages and the cultural influences specific to each region.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer to a group of people.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier used for infants.
• (Be) Careful – A sign used to advise caution or alertness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can say, “I am learning English” using the sign for “England” to indicate the language.

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

Most regions use the same sign, but some may have slight variations in movement or handshape.

What are some signs similar to “England”?

Signs like “Australia” and “Britain” have different handshapes and movements, so it’s good to practice them separately.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movement are correct, and pay attention to your facial expressions.

Can I incorporate this sign into storytelling?

Absolutely! Using the sign in context will help convey your story more effectively.

Is there a formal way to teach this sign?

Yes, it’s often taught in NZSL classes, where instructors emphasize proper handshapes and cultural context.