How to Sign "Judgement"

To sign 'judgement', form both hands into 'F' handshapes, where your index fingers and thumbs touch while the other fingers remain extended. Hold your hands in front of your body with the palms facing each other. Move your hands up and down in an alternating motion, as if you are weighing options on a balancing scale.

Examples Using "Judgement" in a Sentence

1

I trust your judgement.

Sign 'I', 'TRUST', 'YOUR', and then use the alternating 'F' handshapes for 'JUDGEMENT'.

2

Don't rush to judgement.

Sign 'NOT', 'HURRY', and then perform the sign for 'JUDGEMENT' to convey taking time before deciding.

3

The court's judgement was fair.

You can use this same sign for 'COURT' and 'JUDGEMENT', followed by 'FAIR', relying on context to make the meaning clear.

How to Sign "Judgement"
To sign 'judgement', form both hands into 'F' handshapes, where your index fingers and thumbs touch while the other fingers remain extended. Hold your hands in front of your body with the palms facing each other. Move your hands up and down in an alternating motion, as if you are weighing options on a balancing scale.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually represents the traditional scales of justice. The alternating movement of the hands mimics the balancing of two sides or opposing arguments before a final decision is made.
Signing Tips
Keep the alternating up-and-down movement smooth and rhythmic. Imagine your hands are the two sides of a balancing scale weighing different options.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving both hands up and down at the exact same time. Remember that the hands must alternate—as one goes up, the other goes down.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Judgement" in a Sentence
1

I trust your judgement.

Sign 'I', 'TRUST', 'YOUR', and then use the alternating 'F' handshapes for 'JUDGEMENT'.

2

Don't rush to judgement.

Sign 'NOT', 'HURRY', and then perform the sign for 'JUDGEMENT' to convey taking time before deciding.

3

The court's judgement was fair.

You can use this same sign for 'COURT' and 'JUDGEMENT', followed by 'FAIR', relying on context to make the meaning clear.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'judgement' the same as 'judge'?

Yes! The sign for 'judgement' is the exact same sign used for 'judge' and 'court'. The context of your sentence will help the person you are signing with understand which English word you mean.

Does the speed of the sign change its meaning?

It can. Signing it slowly and deliberately can imply a careful, thoughtful judgement process. Signing it quickly might suggest a hasty or rushed decision.

Can I use this sign for the word 'if'?

Yes, the sign for 'if' is often identical to 'judgement' or 'court'. However, 'if' is sometimes signed with a slightly smaller movement or placed closer to the face, depending on the signer's style.

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