How to Sign "Inquire"
To sign 'inquire', hold both hands in front of you with '1' handshapes, index fingers extended and pointing forward. Alternately move each hand forward and then pull it back while bending the index finger into an 'X' handshape. This continuous, alternating motion represents asking a series of questions.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a pluralized, continuous version of the standard ASL sign for 'ask.' The basic sign for 'ask' uses a single index finger that bends into an 'X' shape, visually representing a question mark or the action of hooking a piece of information. By using both hands and alternating the movement, the sign visually depicts a continuous, ongoing stream of questions being asked, which perfectly captures the concept of inquiring, interviewing, or interrogating.
Signing Tips
Focus on establishing a smooth, rhythmic motion with your hands. As one hand moves forward with a straight index finger, the other should be pulling back and bending into the 'X' handshape. Your facial expression is also key here; since inquiring involves seeking information, furrow your eyebrows slightly to convey curiosity or a questioning demeanor. Keep the movement contained within the comfortable space just in front of your chest.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using only one hand to perform this sign. While the one-handed version means 'to ask a single question,' using both hands in an alternating pattern is necessary to convey the meaning of 'inquire' or 'asking multiple questions.' Additionally, ensure you are actively bending your index fingers into 'X' shapes as you pull back, rather than just moving straight fingers back and forth.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Inquire" in a Sentence
1I need to inquire about the job opening.
Sign 'I', 'NEED', then use the alternating 'INQUIRE' sign to show you are asking for information, followed by 'JOB'.
2The police will inquire about the accident.
Sign 'POLICE', then use 'INQUIRE' to show they are asking questions, followed by 'ACCIDENT'.
3She called to inquire about the schedule.
Sign 'SHE', 'CALL', 'INQUIRE', then 'SCHEDULE'.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'ask' and 'inquire' in ASL?
'Ask' is typically signed with one hand moving once to represent a single question. 'Inquire' uses both hands alternating to show a continuous process of asking multiple questions or gathering information.
Can this sign also mean 'interview'?
Yes! Because an interview consists of an exchange of questions, this same alternating sign is commonly used to mean 'interview,' 'interrogate,' or 'survey.'
Do I need to mouth the English word 'inquire'?
You do not need to mouth the English word. Instead, rely on appropriate ASL non-manual markers, such as slightly furrowed eyebrows, to naturally convey the seriousness or curiosity of your inquiry.
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