Personal, Personality in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “personal,” which encompasses meanings like personality, character, and nature, is an essential part of conversations in the NZ Deaf community. It is often used when discussing individual traits, personal experiences, or when expressing personal opinions.

How to Sign “Personal, Personalitycharacter, Nature, Personallywhaiaro, āHuaadjective; Noun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ handshape.
2. Position your hand at your chest, near the heart area.
3. Move your hand outward from your chest, slightly away from your body, while keeping the palm facing upwards.
4. As you make this movement, maintain a facial expression that conveys sincerity or introspection.

Common Mistakes

• One common mistake is not using a clear facial expression, which can lead to misunderstandings about the emotional context of the sign.
• Another error is failing to keep the hand flat, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Some learners might forget to start the sign at the chest, which can make the sign less recognizable.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “personal” involves a specific movement from the chest, while in ASL, the sign may differ in handshape and movement direction. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL, influenced by te reo Māori and BSL, making it distinct from other sign languages.

Related Signs

• Identity: Sign for discussing personal identity and culture.
• Emotion: Sign related to feelings and emotional states.
• Character: Sign for discussing someone’s character traits.
• Nature: Sign related to the natural world and its qualities.
• Culture: Sign for expressing cultural identity and practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “My personal experience was enlightening,” using the sign to emphasize the ‘personal’ aspect of your experience.

Are there any regional variations of this sign in NZ?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regions might have slight variations in movement or facial expression. It’s beneficial to observe local signers.

What are some signs similar to this one?

Signs like “character” and “identity” share similar contexts and can be used interchangeably in discussions about personal traits.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

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

Can I use this sign to describe others?

Yes, you can use it to describe someone else’s personality by indicating the person first, then signing “personal” to relate it to them.

Is this sign used in formal settings?

Yes, it is appropriate to use in both casual and formal settings when discussing personal characteristics.