Italicat a Slant, Italics, Leaning Sideways, Slantedtītaha Te Tuhi, Tuhi Tītahaadjective in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign “italicat a slant, italics, leaning sideways, slanted” (tītaha te tuhi, tuhi tītaha) is commonly used in the New Zealand Deaf community to describe text that is italicized or slanted. This sign is especially useful in educational contexts, such as discussing written materials or teaching students about formatting in writing. It reflects the unique blend of NZSL and local expressions, making it a vital part of communication.

How to Sign “Italicat A Slant, Italics, Leaning Sideways, SlantedtīTaha Te Tuhi, Tuhi TīTahaadjective” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape, palm facing down.
2. Position your hand slightly above the level of your non-dominant hand, which is also in a flat handshape, palm facing up.
3. Lean your dominant hand to one side (left or right) to show the slant, maintaining the flat handshape.
4. As you lean your hand, shift your facial expression to indicate emphasis, such as raising your eyebrows.
5. Hold the position briefly to convey the meaning of ‘italicized’ or ‘slanted’ text.

Common Mistakes

• Using a bent handshape instead of a flat handshape, which can confuse the meaning.
• Not leaning the hand enough to show the slant, making it look like regular text.
• Neglecting facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying the intended emphasis.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for ‘italic’ incorporates specific handshapes and movements that reflect its unique characteristics. In contrast, ASL may use different handshapes or movements, often resulting in a different sign altogether. This highlights the importance of understanding regional variations and the distinct features of NZSL.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You
• (Be) Careful
• (Be) Passive

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use the sign in sentences discussing writing styles, such as: “I use italics for emphasis in my essays” by incorporating the sign naturally with other signs related to writing.

Are there regional variations in this sign across New Zealand?

Yes, some regions may have slight variations in the handshape or movement. It’s helpful to observe local signers to pick up these nuances.

Are there similar signs in NZSL?

Yes, signs for ‘bold’ or ‘underline’ may share some similarities in handshape and movement. Observing these can help in understanding text formatting in NZSL.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to see your handshape and facial expressions clearly. Additionally, engage with Deaf communities to receive feedback.

How does this sign relate to writing?

This sign specifically indicates text that is slanted or emphasized, making it vital for discussions about different writing styles and formats.

Can this sign be used in casual conversations?

While it is primarily used in educational contexts, you can use it in casual conversations about books or articles where formatting is relevant.