PocketSign
Basic

WH Questions

For questions like who, what, where, when, why, which, and how, lower or furrow your eyebrows.

All NMM Basics lessons
ASL signer using furrowed eyebrows for a who what where when why question

Learn It

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

WH questions ask for information, not just yes or no.

Use furrowed eyebrows, a focused look, and often a slight forward head tilt.

Many beginner ASL questions place the WH sign near the end, like NAME YOUR WHAT?

Try It

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

  1. Ask NAME YOUR WHAT? with lowered eyebrows.
  2. Ask BATHROOM WHERE? with lowered eyebrows.
  3. Try the same signs with raised eyebrows and notice how wrong the question feels.

Simple Examples

Read the ASL line first. A dark green pill names what your face or head is doing.

ASL lineNAME YOUR WHAT? furrowed brows
MeaningWhat is your name?
TipWHAT uses the WH question face.
Face actionfurrowed browsLower or furrow your eyebrows because you are asking for information.
ASL lineBATHROOM WHERE? furrowed brows
MeaningWhere is the bathroom?
TipWHERE needs furrowed eyebrows.
Face actionfurrowed browsKeep a focused WH face, especially on WHERE.

Common Mistake

Do not use raised eyebrows just because it is a question. WH questions usually need lowered eyebrows.

Deeper Note

A little more grammar

The PDF groups these markers as the WH-bundle: furrowed brows, head tilt, and sometimes body lean. The exact strength can change depending on where the focus of the question is.