Lovely, Nice (Māori: ātaahua) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “lovely” or “nice” expresses beauty and pleasantness. It’s often used in the Deaf community to compliment someone or something, conveying warmth and appreciation. You might use it when describing a beautiful day, a lovely person, or an aesthetically pleasing object.

How to Sign “Lovelynicepai, āTaahuaadjective” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape).
2. Position your hand near your chin, palm facing towards your face.
3. Gently move your hand away from your chin in a slight arc, while keeping your fingers together and your hand flat.
4. As you make this movement, smile and show a warm facial expression to convey the meaning of “lovely” or “nice.”

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions; they are crucial in NZSL to convey emotion.
• Using a closed fist instead of a flat handshape, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Rushing the movement; the sign should be smooth to capture the essence of beauty.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, “lovelynicepai, ātaahua” uses a flat handshape and a specific movement away from the face, while in ASL, the sign for “beautiful” typically involves a different handshape and movement. This highlights the unique aspects of NZSL, influenced by its own cultural context and te reo Māori.

Related Signs

• (Baby’s) Dummy – A sign for a soothing item for infants.
• (Be) Careful – A sign used to advise caution.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – A sign relating to birth and new beginnings.
• (All Of) You – A collective sign for addressing a group.
• (Be) Passive – A sign to indicate a state of being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “lovelynicepai, ātaahua” in a sentence?

You can say, “The flowers are lovely” by signing “flowers” followed by “lovelynicepai, ātaahua.”

Are there regional variations in the sign across New Zealand?

While “lovelynicepai, ātaahua” is generally consistent, some regions may have slight variations in movement or emphasis.

What is a similar sign for “pretty” in NZSL?

The sign for “pretty” can be similar, often using the same handshape but with a different movement or location.

Can I use this sign to describe people?

Absolutely! It is commonly used to compliment people’s appearance or personality.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your facial expressions match the sign’s meaning, and watch native signers for guidance.

Is there a cultural significance to this sign?

Yes, compliments and expressions of beauty are important in the Deaf community, fostering positive social interactions.

How does this sign connect to te reo Māori?

The term “ātaahua” is derived from te reo Māori, reflecting New Zealand‘s cultural heritage and the integration of Māori language in NZSL.