Overseas in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “overseas,” “abroad,” “foreign,” or “foreign country” (rāwāhi, tāwāhi) is commonly used in the Deaf community to refer to places outside of New Zealand. This sign can be helpful in conversations about travel, cultural exchanges, or international news. It’s a great way to connect with the experiences of Deaf individuals living abroad or discussing connections with foreign cultures.

How to Sign “Overseasabroad, Foreign, Foreign CountryrāWāHi, TāWāHiadjective; Noun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ handshape (like a palm facing down). You may also use a ‘5’ handshape if that feels more comfortable.
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, with the palm facing down.
3. Move your hand slightly away from your body, making a small arc in front of you. This motion represents the idea of going away or being at a distance.
4. As you perform the motion, maintain an engaged facial expression that conveys curiosity or openness, which enhances the meaning of the sign.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may accidentally use a flat handshape with the palm facing sideways instead of down, which can confuse the sign’s meaning.
• Not moving the hand away from the body can make the sign unclear, as the movement is crucial for conveying the concept of “overseas.”
• Omitting facial expressions can make the sign feel incomplete; remember to use your face to express the context of your conversation!

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “overseas” incorporates a movement that signifies distance, while in ASL, the sign might use a different handshape and movement. Understanding these differences can help learners appreciate the nuances of each sign language.

Related Signs

• rāwāhi – meaning “foreign” or “from abroad.”
• tāwāhi – another term for “overseas” or “abroad.”
• travel – the act of moving from one place to another, often used in conjunction with “overseas.”
• culture – refers to the beliefs, customs, and arts of a particular society, often relevant when discussing foreign countries.
• global – encompassing the entire world, can be related to discussions about various countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “I want to travel overseas” by signing: “I want TRAVEL OVERSEAS.”

Are there any regional variations in NZ for this sign?

Generally, the sign is consistent across New Zealand, though some communities may have slight variations in handshape or movement.

What similar signs should I know?

Signs like “travel” and “global” can often be used interchangeably in discussions about international topics.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and movement are clear. Also, engage with native NZSL users to see the sign in context.

Can this sign be used in formal contexts?

Yes, the sign is appropriate in both casual and formal discussions, especially in educational or professional settings related to international matters.

Is the sign the same during storytelling?

In storytelling, you can use a more exaggerated movement to help convey the narrative and engage your audience.