Furniture, Lounge, Sit in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “furniture, lounge, sit” in NZSL is a versatile expression used to describe various types of seating and comfort in social spaces. It’s often used in conversations about home decor, planning gatherings, or simply discussing where to relax. This sign reflects the importance of social connection and comfort within the New Zealand Deaf community.

How to Sign “Furniture, Lounge, Sit” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘B‘ handshape, with your fingers extended and together.
2. Position your hands at chest level, palms facing down.
3. Move your hands apart slightly as you simultaneously lower them to waist height, maintaining the flat ‘B‘ shape.
4. While doing this, use a relaxed facial expression to convey comfort and ease.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the flat ‘B‘ handshape, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Moving the hands too quickly or too far apart, which can make the sign unclear.
• Not incorporating facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL to convey the meaning effectively.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “furniture, lounge, sit” emphasizes the flat handshape and the movement that depicts comfort. In contrast, ASL uses different handshapes and movements that may not directly correlate to the feeling of lounging. This reflects the unique characteristics of NZSL influenced by both British Sign Language (BSL) and te reo Māori.

Related Signs

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “furniture, lounge, sit” in a sentence?

You might say, “Let’s sit on the lounge furniture,” which incorporates the sign naturally within the context of your sentence.

Are there regional variations for this sign in NZ?

While the sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement based on local usage.

What are some similar signs?

Signs like “chair” or “sofa” might be related, as they describe specific types of seating within the furniture category.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movements are accurate, and don’t forget to use facial expressions to add meaning!

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, this sign is appropriate in both casual and formal settings when discussing seating or furniture.