Possessive (Pronoun) (Māori: weu tohu pānga) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “possessive pronoun weu tohu pānganoun; pronoun” in NZSL is used to express ownership or belonging among a group, specifically referring to “us” or “we.” This sign is commonly used in conversations within the Deaf community to indicate shared possessions or collective identity. It reflects the rich cultural nuances of belonging and community in New Zealand‘s Deaf culture.

How to Sign “Possessive (Pronoun)Weu Tohu PāNganoun; Pronoun” in NZSL

1. Begin with your dominant hand in a flat “B” handshape, fingers together and palm facing outward.
2. Position your hand in front of your chest, slightly to the side.
3. Move your hand outward from your body, while keeping the palm facing forward.
4. As you move your hand, nod your head slightly to emphasize the inclusion of the group.
5. Maintain a friendly facial expression to convey the sense of community and togetherness.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to maintain a flat “B” handshape, leading to unclear signing.
• Not emphasizing the movement outward from the body, which can make the sign seem incomplete.
• Using an incorrect facial expression, which can lead to misunderstandings about the inclusive nature of the sign.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “possessive pronoun weu tohu pānganoun; pronoun” involves a flat handshape and a specific outward movement, while in ASL, a different handshape and motion is used to convey possession. This difference highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL, shaped by its cultural context and influences from British Sign Language (BSL) and te reo Māori.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – Used to address a group directly.
• (All Of) Youyou Allkoutou (Katoa)Pronoun – Another way to refer inclusively to a group.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – A common sign related to parenting.
• (Be) Careful – A sign often used to express caution.
• (Be) Passive – Used to describe a state of being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use this sign in a sentence like, “This is our book” by signing the possessive along with the sign for “book.”

Are there regional variations in how this sign is used across NZ?

Generally, the sign is consistent across New Zealand, but some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expressions.

What are similar signs to this one?

Similar signs include those for “you” and “they,” which also express relationships among groups.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your handshape and movement, and try using it in conversations with fluent signers.

Can this sign change meaning based on context?

Yes, the context in which you use the sign can enhance its meaning, especially regarding the relationship of the group involved.

Is this sign influenced by te reo Māori?

While the sign itself is unique to NZSL, many signs in NZSL are influenced by te reo Māori, reflecting the cultural connections.