3.1.2.2. Multiple

The multiple plural form is usually realized by an insertion of a horizontal arc into the movement of the verb. For example, the sentence โ€˜I ask themโ€™ is realized as shown below. The verb starts near the signerโ€™s mouth and then moves in a continuous manner from a location at the contralateral side in an arc to a location at the ipsilateral side of the signing space.

 

            1ask3pl-arc                                           

            โ€˜I ask themโ€™

                                                                       (based on Rathmann & Mathur, 2008:199)

 

 

 

 

In the above example, the object is a non-first person, therefore the arc faces outwards. If the object is marked for first person and plural, the arc faces inwards. The plural form of a subject is not expressed.