Progress (verb) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

“Progress,” or “ahu whakamua” in te reo Māori, is a sign used in the NZ Deaf community to express advancement or improvement in various contexts. This sign is commonly used when discussing personal growth, project developments, or positive changes in situations. It’s a great way to convey the idea of moving forward.

How to Sign “Progressadvance, Headway, Make Progressahu Whakamua, Kaunekeverb” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands open, palms facing upwards, and positioned in front of your chest.
2. Move your hands forward in a smooth motion, while gradually closing your fingers into a fist as you extend your arms.
3. Keep your facial expression positive, conveying a sense of determination or achievement as you sign.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to show the movement of the hands, which is crucial for conveying the concept of “progress.”
• Using a flat hand instead of the open palm, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Neglecting facial expressions, which are an important part of NZSL communication and can affect the message’s tone.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “progress” incorporates a unique hand movement and shape that may differ from ASL. While ASL has its own specific signs with different gestures, NZSL emphasizes the direction and movement of the hands to symbolize advancement more explicitly.

Related Signs

• Achievement – Signifying success in a task or goal.
• Advance – A sign used to indicate moving forward in a more general sense.
• Develop – Referring to growth or progression in skills or projects.
• Improve – Indicating enhancement or betterment in various areas.
• Goal – A target or objective one aims to achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this sign in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you can say, “I want to make progress in my studies” by signing “I” + “want” + “make progress.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in NZ?

The sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, but some regions may have slight variations in movement or facial expression.

What are some signs that are similar to “progress”?

Related signs include “achieve,” “advance,” and “improve,” each focusing on different aspects of moving forward.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your hand movements and facial expressions. Watching others sign can also help.

Is this sign used in formal settings?

Yes, “progress” can be used in both formal and informal settings, such as meetings, presentations, or casual conversations.

Can children use this sign?

Absolutely! This sign is suitable for all ages and can help children express their achievements and goals.