Indigestion in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “indigestioncolic, heartburn, refluxtaratarawainoun; verb” is commonly used in the NZ Deaf community to describe discomfort or pain in the stomach related to digestion. This sign is particularly useful in medical or everyday conversations when discussing health issues and can help Deaf individuals express their feelings about digestive discomfort effectively.

How to Sign “Indigestioncolic, Heartburn, Refluxtaratarawainoun; Verb” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand open, palm facing up.
2. Place your hand on your chest, just below the collarbone.
3. Move your hand in a circular motion, applying gentle pressure as if you’re massaging the area.
4. Maintain a concerned facial expression to convey discomfort.
5. As you move your hand, you may also want to lean slightly forward to emphasize the feeling of discomfort.

Common Mistakes

• Using the wrong hand shape; ensure your hand is open and relaxed.
• Not using facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL for conveying emotions.
• Overemphasizing the movement, making it look exaggerated instead of natural.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, this sign uses a specific hand placement and circular motion that may differ from ASL. While both sign languages convey the same concept, the hand shapes and movements may vary, reflecting the unique aspects of each language’s grammar and structure. For instance, ASL might use a different handshape or facial expression to express similar discomfort.

Related Signs

• (Baby’S) Dummy – A sign for a baby’s pacifier.
• (Be) Careful – A sign to indicate caution.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – A sign related to childbirth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can say, “I have indigestion,” by signing the phrase with appropriate facial expressions to show your discomfort.

Are there regional variations in this sign across NZ?

Some regions may have slight variations in the movement or facial expressions, but the core sign remains widely understood.

What are some similar signs?

Signs for digestive issues like “nausea” and “stomachache” can be related and are often used in similar contexts.

Any tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your hand shape and facial expressions for clarity.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

Yes, it is appropriate to use in both casual and formal conversations, especially in medical contexts.

Is there a specific cultural context for this sign?

Understanding and discussing health issues is important in the Deaf community, and this sign helps facilitate those conversations.