Not Medeny, Disown, Don’t Ask Me, Don’t Want to Know, Innocent, Not Responsible, Nothing to Do with Meehara Nākunegator; Verb in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)
The NZSL sign for “not medeny, disown, don’t ask me, don’t want to know, innocent, not responsible, nothing to do with meehara nākunegator” expresses a clear separation or disconnection from a situation or responsibility. It’s commonly used in conversations to indicate that the signer does not want to be involved or informed about something, reflecting a cultural value of personal boundaries within the New Zealand Deaf community.
Table of Contents
How to Sign “Not Medeny, Disown, Don’t Ask Me, Don’t Want To Know, Innocent, Not Responsible, Nothing To Do With Meehara NāKunegator; Verb” in NZSL
- Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (similar to an open palm).
- Position your hand in front of your chest, with the palm facing towards you.
- Move your hand slightly away from your body while shaking it gently side to side.
- Facial expressions play a significant role; maintain a neutral or slightly dismissive expression to convey disinterest.
Common Mistakes
- Using an incorrect handshape; make sure to keep the hand flat and open to properly convey the sign.
- Failing to incorporate facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL for conveying the right emotion and intent.
- Not moving the hand away from the body enough, making the sign unclear.
NZSL vs ASL
In NZSL, the sign emphasizes a clear gesture of disconnection with an open hand, while in ASL, the equivalent sign may involve different handshapes and movements that can signify similar meanings. Understanding these differences highlights the unique aspects of NZSL influenced by local culture and sign language development.
Related Signs
- (All Of) You – A sign indicating inclusion or addressing a group.
- (Baby’S) Dummy – A sign for a pacifier used by infants.
- (Be) Careful – A sign for caution or warning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I use this sign in a sentence?
You can use this sign to indicate your lack of involvement in a situation. For example, “I heard about the event, but I’m not medeny.” This emphasizes your disinterest.
Are there regional variations of this sign in NZ?
While this sign is widely recognized, some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression. It’s beneficial to observe local users for the most accurate representation.
What are some similar signs?
Similar signs include “not interested” and “leave me out,” which also convey disconnection or a desire to not be involved.
What tips do you have for learning this sign?
Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expressions are correct. Watching native signers can also provide valuable context.
Can this sign be used in formal settings?
Yes, but be mindful of the context and your facial expressions, as they can affect the interpretation of the sign in more formal environments.
Is this sign used by hearing people as well?
This sign is primarily used within the Deaf community; however, some hearing individuals who learn NZSL may use it appropriately.
Practice This Sign
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