Put a Good Face on Something (Māori: Whakapai Kanohi) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign “put a good face on something” or “whakapai kanohi” conveys the idea of being polite, going through the motions, or maintaining a positive demeanor despite difficulties. It’s commonly used in the NZ Deaf community when discussing the importance of resilience and positivity in challenging situations.

How to Sign “Put A Good Face On Somethingbe Polite, Go Through The Motions, Grin And Bear It, Suck It Upwhakapai Kanohiphrase; Verb” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands in front of your face, palms facing inwards, with fingers slightly spread.
2. Form a relaxed, neutral facial expression to show the initial state of the situation.
3. As you begin to move your hands outward, transition your facial expression into a smile, indicating positivity.
4. Move your hands outward from your face while slightly raising them, as if you’re presenting a new, positive outlook.
5. Complete the sign by returning to a neutral expression, demonstrating the idea of enduring through challenges.

Common Mistakes

• Focusing too much on hand movements without matching facial expressions, which can lead to misunderstandings of the sign’s intent.
• Using overly exaggerated hand movements that do not align with the emotional nuance of the sign.
• Forgetting to start with a neutral expression, which is crucial for conveying the full meaning of “putting on a good face.”

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign emphasizes facial expressions to communicate feelings, which may differ from how a similar concept is expressed in ASL. ASL may use different hand shapes and movements, reflecting the unique cultural context of each signing community.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to address a group collectively.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Refers to a pacifier, often used in parenting contexts.
• (Be) Careful – A sign conveying caution or the need to be careful.
• (Be) Passive – Used to describe a state of being non-reactive or subdued.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You might say, “Even when things are tough, I try to put a good face on it,” using the sign to express resilience.

Are there regional variations in signing this?

While the core sign remains the same, slight variations in facial expressions or hand movements may occur depending on the region.

What are some signs that are similar to “put a good face on it”?

Similar signs include “stay positive” and “grin and bear it,” both of which emphasize maintaining a good attitude.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to see your facial expressions and ensure they match your hand movements for better clarity.

Can this sign be used in formal settings?

Yes, it can be used in both casual and formal contexts to express resilience or a positive attitude.

What should I focus on when practicing this sign?

Pay attention to your facial expressions and ensure they reflect the emotional context of the sign.