How to Sign "Everything"

Start with both hands in the "A" handshape and placing one in front of the other. The hand that is closer to the body moves from up to down along the wrist of the hand that is in front of it. Then both hands open, palms up with one hand over the other and then move the hands away from each other.

Examples Using "Everything" in a Sentence

1

I packed everything for the trip.

Sign 'I', 'PACK', then use the two-part 'EVERYTHING' sign described, starting with the 'A' hands sliding and finishing with the open palms separating.

2

Everything is going to be okay.

Start the sentence with the 'everything' sign, ensuring you clearly transition from the sliding 'A' hands to the open palms moving apart, followed by 'FINE' or 'OKAY'.

3

Did you eat everything?

Sign 'YOU', 'EAT', and then 'EVERYTHING' using the sliding 'A' handshape into the open palms moving apart, while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Everything"
Start with both hands in the "A" handshape and placing one in front of the other. The hand that is closer to the body moves from up to down along the wrist of the hand that is in front of it. Then both hands open, palms up with one hand over the other and then move the hands away from each other.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a classic compound in American Sign Language, combining the signs for 'EVERY' and 'THING.' The first part uses the 'A' handshapes sliding down the wrist, which visually represents ticking off individual items on a list. The second part, where the open palms face upward and move apart, represents holding or presenting multiple objects or concepts. Together, they literally translate to 'every single thing.'
Signing Tips
To make this sign look natural, focus on a smooth, continuous transition between the two distinct parts. When your dominant 'A' hand slides down the wrist of your non-dominant hand, let that downward momentum flow right into the open-palm motion. Keep your movements relaxed rather than rigid, and make sure your palms are clearly facing upward during the second half of the sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is pausing too long between the first part (the sliding 'A' hands) and the second part (the open palms moving apart). It should look like one fluid concept rather than two separate words. Another frequent error is forgetting to change from the 'A' handshape to the open flat hands for the second half, or having the palms face downward instead of upward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Everything" in a Sentence
1

I packed everything for the trip.

Sign 'I', 'PACK', then use the two-part 'EVERYTHING' sign described, starting with the 'A' hands sliding and finishing with the open palms separating.

2

Everything is going to be okay.

Start the sentence with the 'everything' sign, ensuring you clearly transition from the sliding 'A' hands to the open palms moving apart, followed by 'FINE' or 'OKAY'.

3

Did you eat everything?

Sign 'YOU', 'EAT', and then 'EVERYTHING' using the sliding 'A' handshape into the open palms moving apart, while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I use my dominant hand for the sliding motion?

Yes! Your non-dominant hand should be the one in front staying relatively still, while your dominant hand (the one closer to your body) does the downward sliding motion along the wrist.

Can I just sign 'ALL' instead of 'EVERYTHING'?

While 'ALL' can sometimes be used to convey a similar meaning depending on the context, the sign described here specifically means 'everything' (every single thing) and is best when you want to emphasize individual items making up a whole.

How far apart should my hands move at the end?

When your hands open and move away from each other for the second part of the sign, they should move just comfortably outside the width of your shoulders. There is no need to stretch your arms out completely.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!