How to Sign "Is It"

To sign 'is it', extend the index finger of your dominant hand to form a '1' handshape. Point directly toward the object or area you are referring to. Crucially, you must raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward. This facial expression is what turns the simple pronoun 'it' into the question 'is it?'.

Examples Using "Is It" in a Sentence

1

Is it a cat?

Point at the animal while raising your eyebrows to ask 'is it', then sign 'cat'.

2

Is it yours?

Point to the object with raised eyebrows, then point your flat palm toward the person to sign 'yours'.

3

Is it broken?

Point at the item while keeping your eyebrows raised, then sign 'broken'.

How to Sign "Is It"
To sign 'is it', extend the index finger of your dominant hand to form a '1' handshape. Point directly toward the object or area you are referring to. Crucially, you must raise your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward. This facial expression is what turns the simple pronoun 'it' into the question 'is it?'.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a perfect example of how ASL combines manual and non-manual elements. It pairs the standard ASL pronoun for 'it'—a simple index finger pointing at an object—with the grammatical facial marker for a yes/no question, which is raised eyebrows.
Signing Tips
Focus heavily on your facial expressions. The physical hand movement is just a simple point, so the entire meaning of the question relies on your raised eyebrows and slight head tilt. Practice in a mirror to ensure your question face is clear and noticeable.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is forgetting the facial expressions. If you point with a neutral face, you are simply stating 'it' or 'that.' Without the raised eyebrows, the person you are signing to won't know you are asking them a question.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Is It" in a Sentence
1

Is it a cat?

Point at the animal while raising your eyebrows to ask 'is it', then sign 'cat'.

2

Is it yours?

Point to the object with raised eyebrows, then point your flat palm toward the person to sign 'yours'.

3

Is it broken?

Point at the item while keeping your eyebrows raised, then sign 'broken'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign the word 'is'?

No! ASL does not use 'to be' verbs like 'is,' 'are,' or 'am.' The concept of 'is' is built into the question format, which you show by raising your eyebrows while pointing.

Can I point at a person instead of an object?

Yes, but the meaning changes slightly. Pointing at a person with raised eyebrows translates to 'Is he?', 'Is she?', or 'Are they?' The grammatical rule remains exactly the same.

What if the object isn't in the room?

If the object isn't present, you can establish it in your signing space first. Then, you simply point to that designated empty space while raising your eyebrows to ask 'is it?' about that specific thing.

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