Impressed in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “impressed” is commonly used in the Deaf community to express feelings of admiration or astonishment. It captures the essence of being positively affected by someone’s actions, words, or talents. This sign is versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as appreciating someone’s performance or acknowledging a remarkable achievement.

How to Sign “Impressed” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a palm facing down).
2. Position your hand near your chest, with fingers slightly spread apart.
3. Move your hand outward and slightly upward, as if you are expressing a surprise or a sense of wonder.
4. Facial expressions are key—raise your eyebrows and open your eyes wide to convey the feeling of being impressed.

Common Mistakes

• Using a flat handshape but moving the hand too far away from the body, which can change the meaning.
• Not incorporating facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the depth of emotion in this sign.
• Forgetting to use the upward movement, which is essential to show the feeling of being uplifted or impressed.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “impressed” involves a specific hand movement that reflects the emotion, while in ASL, the sign may differ in handshape and motion. NZSL places a strong emphasis on facial expressions to convey feelings, which is also essential in ASL but may be executed differently.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – Used to refer to a group collectively.
• (Be) Careful – Expresses caution or warning.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Relates to the act of birth.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier for infants.
• (Be) Passive – Indicates a state of being passive or inactive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “impressed” in a sentence?

You can say, “I was impressed by your performance,” by signing “I” + “impressed” + “your performance.”

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

The sign may vary slightly in movement or expression depending on the region, but the core concept remains the same across New Zealand.

What are some signs similar to “impressed”?

Related signs include “amazed,” “surprised,” and “astonished.” Each has its own distinct sign but conveys a similar emotional context.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror to refine your facial expressions and hand movements. Watching native signers can also be very helpful.

Can I use “impressed” in different contexts?

Yes, “impressed” is versatile and can be used in various situations, such as when expressing admiration for someone’s skills, achievements, or even artwork.

Is facial expression really that important in NZSL?

Absolutely! Facial expressions in NZSL are integral to conveying the emotion behind the sign and can change the meaning of the sign significantly.