Nightevening, Tonightpōnoun in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “nightevening, tonight” (pō) is commonly used to refer to the period of time from evening until night, typically when discussing plans or events happening later in the day. This sign is an essential part of everyday conversation in the New Zealand Deaf community, reflecting both cultural practices and social interactions.

How to Sign “Nightevening, TonightpōNoun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat shape (like a ‘B’ handshape) and hold it at about shoulder height.
2. Position your palm facing downwards and slightly forward.
3. Move your hand in a smooth arc downward towards your side, as if indicating the setting sun.
4. Finish the movement by stopping with your hand close to your hip, maintaining a relaxed facial expression to convey the calmness of the evening.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to keep the hand flat, using a fist instead, which can confuse the sign.
• Not moving the hand in a smooth arc can make the sign look abrupt or unclear.
• Using an exaggerated facial expression can distract from the meaning of the sign.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “nightevening, tonight” has a unique handshape and movement that differs from ASL. While ASL uses a more direct sign for “night,” NZSL incorporates the idea of the evening setting, reflecting the cultural context of New Zealand.

Related Signs

• Day – Refers to the daytime period.
• Morning – Used for the early part of the day.
• Weekend – Indicates Saturday and Sunday.
• Evening – Specifically refers to the period after late afternoon.
• Midnight – Signifies the middle of the night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this sign in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you can say, “Tonight I will go to the movies,” using the sign for “tonight” followed by other signs for your sentence.

Are there regional variations of this sign in NZ?

While the sign is fairly consistent across New Zealand, some regions may have slight variations in handshape or movement.

What signs are similar to “nightevening, tonight”?

Signs for “evening” and “day” are related, as they help convey time of day in conversation.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and movement. Watching native NZSL users can also help you pick up nuances.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

Absolutely! It is appropriate for both casual and formal conversations regarding time.

How do I express a specific time at night?

You can add the time before the sign for “tonight,” for example, “8 PM tonight” by signing the time first and then using the sign for “tonight.”