Marvellous in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “marvellous, amazing, brilliant, fabulous, fantastic” in NZSL captures the essence of excitement and positivity. It’s commonly used in the Deaf community to express admiration or enthusiasm for something remarkable. This sign can also be a great way to uplift conversations and share joy with others.

How to Sign “Marvellousamazing, Brilliant, Fabulous, FantasticwhakamīHaroadjective” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in a flat ‘B’ handshape (palm facing down).
2. Position your hands in front of your chest, around shoulder-width apart.
3. Move your hands outward and slightly upward in a gentle arc, while keeping the palms facing down.
4. As you perform this movement, express your enthusiasm through your facial expressions, smiling and raising your eyebrows slightly.

Common Mistakes

• Not using facial expressions: Many learners forget that facial expressions are a crucial part of signing in NZSL.
• Incorrect handshape: Some may confuse the ‘B’ handshape with other handshapes. Ensure the hands are flat and not clenched.
• Not moving hands enough: The movement should be smooth and fluid; some learners may hesitate or not extend their hands fully.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “marvellous” involves a distinct hand movement and facial expression that emphasizes excitement. In contrast, ASL has a different sign that may vary in handshape and movement, showcasing the unique characteristics of each sign language.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You: A sign to address a group of people.
• (Baby’s) Dummy: A sign for a pacifier used by infants.
• (Be) Careful: A sign used to warn someone to take care.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth: A sign related to childbirth.
• (Be) Passive: A sign indicating a state of passivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign to express excitement, such as “That movie was marvellous!” by incorporating it into your sentence structure.

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

While this sign is widely understood, some regions might have slight variations in movement or emphasis. It’s beneficial to learn from local Deaf communities.

What are some similar signs I should know?

Related signs include “amazing”, “wonderful”, and “awesome”, which all convey positive feelings and can be used interchangeably in many contexts.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your facial expressions and hand movements, and try to engage with Deaf peers for real-life practice.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

Yes, it can be used in both casual and formal contexts to express appreciation or excitement about various subjects.

Is there a specific emotion I should convey when signing this?

Conveying genuine enthusiasm and positivity is key. Your facial expressions should match the excitement the sign represents.