Facetime in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign “facetimefacetimematawānoun” in NZSL refers to the popular video calling application, often used for connecting with friends and family. It is commonly used in various contexts within the New Zealand Deaf community, particularly when discussing modern communication methods or making plans to connect via video.

How to Sign “Facetimefacetimematawānoun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape, palm facing towards you.
2. Bring your hand up to your face, as if you are holding a phone.
3. Pivot your hand slightly outward, maintaining the flat handshape.
4. Use your non-dominant hand to mimic the action of holding a phone, supporting the dominant hand.
5. Add facial expressions that convey excitement or connection, as this enhances the meaning.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are key in NZSL for conveying emotion.
• Using a flat handshape but not positioning it correctly near the face.
• Not incorporating the non-dominant hand, which helps in demonstrating the action of video calling.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “facetimefacetimematawānoun” incorporates a flat handshape and emphasizes facial expressions. In contrast, the American Sign Language (ASL) sign for “FaceTime” typically uses a different handshape and movement, reflecting the unique characteristics of each sign language.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer to a group of people.
• (Baby’S) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier for babies.
• (Be) Careful – A sign indicating the need for caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can “facetimefacetimematawānoun” be used in a sentence?

Yes, you can use it in a sentence like: “I will facetimefacetimematawānoun you later.” This shows how to integrate it naturally into conversation.

Are there regional variations for this sign in NZ?

Most regions use a similar sign for “facetimefacetimematawānoun,” but slight variations may occur in the execution based on local dialects.

Is there a similar sign in ASL?

Yes, ASL has a sign for “FaceTime,” but it differs in handshape and movement, reflecting the unique aspects of each sign language.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your hand positioning and facial expressions are accurate. Watching videos of fluent signers can also help.

Can I use this sign for other video calling apps?

This sign is specific to FaceTime, but you can adapt it for other apps by modifying the context or using fingerspelling.

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

To ensure accuracy, practice with someone who is fluent in NZSL or consult instructional videos that demonstrate the sign.