All Three in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “all three” in NZSL is commonly used to refer to a group of three people or things. This sign is particularly useful in conversations involving choices, options, or discussing groups, and is an important part of everyday communication within the New Zealand Deaf community.

How to Sign “All Three” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape, palm facing forward.
2. Position your hand near your chest area, with your fingers slightly spread apart.
3. Move your hand outward to the right, while maintaining the same flat handshape.
4. As you move your hand, slightly tilt it to indicate the number three, showing all three fingers (thumb, index, and middle) raised while the ring and little fingers are tucked in.
5. Use facial expressions to convey emphasis or clarification, as this adds meaning to your sign.

Common Mistakes

• Mixing up the handshape: Learners sometimes use a fist instead of a flat hand.
• Incorrect finger positioning: Forgetting to show all three fingers can lead to confusion.
• Not using facial expressions: This can make the sign feel less clear or engaging.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “all three” is distinct and uses a flat handshape, while in ASL, different signs may be used to represent the same concept. NZSL incorporates unique movements and facial expressions that are specific to its culture, influenced by both local context and the use of te reo Māori.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign indicating a group of people addressed together.
• (All Of) Youyou Allkoutou (Katoa)Pronoun – A plural form of ‘you’ in NZSL.
• (Be) Careful – A sign showing caution or alertness.
• (Be) Passive – A sign to indicate a state of being passive or inactive.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – A sign referring to a baby pacifier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use “all three” in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you might say, “I have three friends, and I want to invite all three to the party.”

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

Generally, the sign is consistent across New Zealand, but slight variations may exist in different communities.

Are there similar signs in NZSL?

Yes, signs for “all,” “two,” and “three” can be similar, but pay attention to handshape and movement for clarity.

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice in front of a mirror, and try incorporating it into conversations to reinforce your learning.

Is this sign used in formal settings?

Yes, “all three” is appropriate in both informal and formal conversations when discussing groups or categories.

Can I use this sign when referring to objects?

Absolutely! You can use “all three” when talking about any set of three items.