Move, Motion, House in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “movemotion, move house, shiftneke, nukuverb” conveys the idea of moving from one place to another, particularly in the context of relocating a home. This sign is commonly used during discussions about changing residences or transportation, and it reflects the vibrant culture of the New Zealand Deaf community. In NZSL, this concept can express both physical movement and metaphorical transitions, making it quite versatile.

How to Sign “Movemotion, Move House, Shiftneke, Nukuverb” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a ‘B’ handshape) and hold it in front of your body.
2. From this position, make a small forward movement with your hand, indicating the action of moving.
3. Simultaneously, shift your facial expression to show intent or purpose, such as a slight frown or focused look.
4. Optionally, you can add movement with your non-dominant hand to illustrate the ‘house’ concept by shaping it into a flat hand as well and moving it along with the dominant hand.
5. Finish with a slight upward flick of your dominant hand to emphasize the completion of the move.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL to convey emotions and intent.
• Using an incorrect handshape, such as a fist instead of a flat hand, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not incorporating movement with both hands, as this can lead to a less clear representation of the action.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “move” has a distinct handshape and movement compared to ASL, where the sign may utilize a different gesture and hand position. While both languages share some similarities due to historical influences, the NZSL sign often incorporates unique aspects of New Zealand culture and te reo Māori influences, making it distinctively Kiwi.

Related Signs

• (Be) Careful – Sign for caution or alertness.
• (Be) Passive – Sign indicating a state of being non-active.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Sign related to the concept of birth and new beginnings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “movemotion” in a sentence?

You can use it in a sentence like: “I plan to movemotion next month,” which would be signed as “I (pointing to yourself) movemotion (perform the sign) next month.”

Are there regional variations in how this sign is used?

Yes, some regions may have slight variations in movement or handshape, but the core concept remains consistent across New Zealand.

Is there a similar sign for moving things other than houses?

Yes, the sign can also be adapted to indicate moving objects or people, simply by adjusting the context and accompanying facial expressions.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movements are clear. Watching others sign in the Deaf community can also help.

What if I mix up this sign with another?

It’s common to mix up signs when learning. Focus on the movement and context, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification from experienced signers!

Can I use this sign for other contexts, like emotional movement?

Yes, while primarily used for physical movement, you can adapt the sign to express emotional or metaphorical transitions by adjusting your facial expressions and context.