Her / His / Its / Their (pronoun, 2) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “her / his / its / their belong to, own” is an important pronoun used to indicate possession or ownership. This sign is commonly used in everyday conversations within the Deaf community in New Zealand, allowing users to express who something belongs to. Understanding and using this sign is essential for clear communication in NZSL.

How to Sign “Her / His / Its / Theirbelong To, Owntanapronoun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in the shape of a flat ‘B‘ handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hand at the side of your chest, near your shoulder.
3. Gently move your hand away from your body a short distance while maintaining the ‘B‘ handshape.
4. As you move your hand, maintain a neutral or friendly facial expression to convey the meaning clearly.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain the correct handshape, which can lead to confusion about the sign’s meaning.
• Using an incorrect facial expression, which can change the intent of the sign.
• Not positioning the hand close enough to the body, making it harder for viewers to understand the reference to the person or object owned.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “her / his / its / their belong to, own” is performed using a flat ‘B‘ handshape, while in American Sign Language (ASL), a different sign is used that involves a more complex handshape and movement. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL, influenced by its own cultural context and regional use.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – Refers to a group of people.
• (All Of) Youyou Allkoutou (Katoa)Pronoun – Another way to express addressing a group.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier.
• (Be) Careful – A sign used to express caution.
• (Be) Passive – Indicates passivity or lack of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign to indicate possession, like in the sentence “That is her book,” where you would sign the object and then use the sign for “her.”

Are there regional variations in NZSL for this sign?

While the basic sign remains consistent, some regional variations may exist, particularly in the way the movement is executed. Observing local speakers can help refine your signing.

Is this sign similar to any other signs in NZSL?

Yes, it shares similarities with other possessive signs, but the context and handshape will differ based on what is being referred to.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice consistently with others in the Deaf community and watch native signers to pick up nuances in movement and expression.

Can I use this sign for non-living things?

Yes, this sign can also be used to express ownership of non-living objects, like “that is its color,” referring to an object.

What facial expressions should I use?

A neutral or friendly expression is best, as this sign is straightforward and does not convey emotional context.