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Rhetorical Questions

ASL rhetorical questions are not usually asking the other person to answer. They help you connect ideas and then answer yourself.

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ASL signer using raised eyebrows for a rhetorical why question

Learn It

Start with the simple version, then practice it with real signs.

A rhetorical question uses a WH sign like WHY, WHAT, or WHERE, but the eyebrows are raised.

The raised brows tell the viewer, "I am about to answer my own question."

This pattern is common when ASL connects ideas like because, reason, or explanation.

Try It

Practice slowly. Make the face before the sentence is over.

  1. Sign ? with raised brows on , then answer .
  2. Sign ? with raised brows, then answer .
  3. Keep the rhetorical question short so the answer feels connected.

Simple Examples

Read the ASL line first, then check the meaning and tip.

ASL line ? .
MeaningI am learning ASL because I love the language.
TipWHY is rhetorical because the signer answers it.
ASL line ? .
MeaningThe game is canceled because it is raining.
TipRaised brows show the signer is not waiting for an answer.

Common Mistake

Do not use the normal WH-question face here. A furrowed brow can make it look like you truly want the listener to answer.

Deeper Note

A little more grammar

The PDF describes rhetorical questions as transitions in ASL discourse. They can replace English connecting words, especially when the signer wants to explain a reason.