Have Done That (verb) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
The sign for “have done that / been there / finished / have experience of” encompasses a variety of meanings, all indicating completion or familiarity with an action or experience. It’s commonly used in everyday conversations within the Deaf community, especially when recounting experiences or affirming understanding.
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How to Sign “Have Done Thatbeen There, Finished, Have Experience Ofkua Mahia, Kua Taea, Kua Kiteverb” in NZSL
- Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape, fingers extended and together.
- Position your hand in front of your chest, with your palm facing towards you.
- Move your hand outwards and slightly upwards, away from your body, while keeping the handshape the same.
- As you make this movement, ensure to nod your head slightly or raise your eyebrows to convey completion or affirmation.
Common Mistakes
- Using a fist instead of a flat hand can change the meaning.
- Neglecting facial expressions may lead to confusion about the completion aspect.
- Performing the movement too slowly can imply uncertainty or incompletion.
NZSL vs ASL
In NZSL, the sign for “have done that” incorporates specific movements and facial expressions that are unique to the language, reflecting the cultural context. In contrast, ASL may use a different handshape and movement pattern, emphasizing its own linguistic structure and nuances.
Related Signs
- (All Of) You – Used to refer to multiple people.
- (Be) Careful – A sign indicating caution.
- (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Refers to the act of giving birth.
- (Be) Passive – Indicates a state of being passive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I use this sign in a sentence?
You can use this sign to indicate that you have completed a task, such as saying, “I have finished my homework.” Sign it after stating the task.
Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?
While the core sign remains consistent, some regions might have slight variations in movement or facial expressions influenced by local Deaf culture.
Is there a similar sign in NZSL?
Yes, signs like “completed” or “finished” may share similar hand movements, but be mindful of context as they can convey different nuances.
What tips do you have for learning this sign?
Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and facial expressions. Watching native signers use it in context can also be very helpful.
Can I use this sign to talk about feelings?
This sign mainly refers to actions or experiences. For feelings, you would use different signs that specifically express emotions.
What if I want to emphasize a past experience?
You can combine this sign with contextual signs indicating time, such as “yesterday” or “last week,” to clarify the timeframe.
How does this sign connect with te reo Māori?
The integration of te reo Māori in NZSL enriches the language, and understanding these connections can enhance your signing skills and cultural appreciation.
Practice This Sign
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