(too) Much in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “(too) much” is commonly used in everyday conversation within the Deaf community to express an excess or abundance of something. This sign is versatile and can be applied in various contexts, such as discussing food, feelings, or situations that feel overwhelming.

How to Sign “(Too) Much” in NZSL

1. Start with both hands open, palms facing down and fingers spread.
2. Position your hands in front of your body around shoulder height.
3. Bring your hands together in a slight downward arc, as if gathering things into a pile.
4. As you bring your hands together, slightly tilt your head and raise your eyebrows to emphasize the meaning of “too much.”
5. Finish the motion with your hands close together but not touching, indicating an excess.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in NZSL for conveying intensity or emotion.
• Using a flat hand instead of an open hand, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not performing the downward arc motion, which is essential for representing the concept of abundance.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “(too) much” has a distinctive handshape and movement that differs from ASL. While ASL may use a more stationary handshape, NZSL incorporates a dynamic motion to emphasize the concept of excess, reflecting its unique linguistic features influenced by local culture and sign language history.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer to a group of people.
• (Be) Careful – Used to express caution or warn others.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – Represents a baby’s pacifier.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – Signifies the act of giving birth.
• (Be) Passive – Indicates a state of being passive or inactive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use “(too) much” in a sentence?

You can say, “I have (too) much work,” by signing “I” followed by the sign for “(too) much” and then the sign for “work.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in New Zealand?

While the core sign remains consistent, some regional variations may exist in the speed or emphasis of the sign across different areas.

What is a similar sign to “(too) much”?

The sign for “a lot” is similar and can often be used interchangeably, but “(too) much” adds a connotation of excess.

Do I need to use facial expressions when signing?

Yes, facial expressions are essential in NZSL to convey the meaning and emotional context of signs, including “(too) much.”

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to check your hand shapes and facial expressions, and watch fluent signers to see how they use the sign in context.

Can I use “(too) much” for feelings?

Absolutely! You can use this sign to express feelings, such as “too much stress” or “too much love,” by signing the appropriate words before it.