Mean in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “meanmeanness, miser, selfish, stingy, tight” in NZSL conveys a sense of unwillingness to share or an attitude of being ungenerous. This sign is often used in everyday conversations within the Deaf community to describe someone who is not willing to part with their resources, whether it be money, time, or kindness. It’s a useful sign to express feelings about someone’s behavior in a culturally appropriate way.

How to Sign “Meanmeanness, Miser, Selfish, Stingy, Tightmatapikoadjective” in NZSL

1. Begin with your dominant hand in a flat handshape, fingers extended and together.
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, palm facing down.
3. Move your hand downward slightly while bending your wrist, creating a downward motion.
4. As you sign, maintain a facial expression that reflects negativity or disapproval, showing that the person is not generous.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to include the facial expression, which is crucial for conveying the meaning of the sign.
• Using a fist instead of a flat handshape, which changes the sign’s meaning.
• Not moving the hand downwards, which can lead to confusion about the sign’s intent.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “mean” incorporates a specific handshape and movement that may differ from ASL, where a different handshape and motion are used. While both languages share some similarities due to historical influences, each has unique aspects that reflect their respective cultures.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer to a group of people.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier for infants.
• (Be) Careful – A sign used to warn someone to be cautious.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign in a sentence like, “He is so stingy, he never shares anything.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?

While the sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression.

What are similar signs that I should know?

Related signs include “greedy” and “cheap,” which convey similar meanings about being unwilling to share.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are accurate. Watching native signers can also help.

Can I use this sign in formal settings?

While it can be used in casual conversations, it’s best to be mindful of the context and audience when using it in more formal situations.