Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Judgment"

To sign "judgment," form both hands into "F" handshapes, where the tips of your index fingers and thumbs touch, and your other three fingers are extended. Hold your hands in front of your chest with your palms facing each other. Move your hands up and down in an alternating motion, as if they are the two sides of a scale weighing something. One hand should rise while the other lowers, repeating this balancing movement a couple of times.

Examples Using "Judgment" in a Sentence

1

I trust your judgment.

Point to the person, sign "trust," and then use the alternating "F" handshapes for "judgment." This shows you believe in their ability to weigh options and make a good decision.

2

The court made a final judgment.

Sign "court" or "judgment" using the alternating "F" handshapes, followed by "finish" or "decide." The context of the sentence will make it clear that you are talking about a legal ruling.

3

Don't rush to judgment.

Sign "not," "hurry," and then "judgment." The alternating movement of the "F" hands emphasizes the need to carefully weigh all the facts before coming to a conclusion.

How to Sign "Judgment"
To sign "judgment," form both hands into "F" handshapes, where the tips of your index fingers and thumbs touch, and your other three fingers are extended. Hold your hands in front of your chest with your palms facing each other. Move your hands up and down in an alternating motion, as if they are the two sides of a scale weighing something. One hand should rise while the other lowers, repeating this balancing movement a couple of times.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "judgment" is highly iconic and visually represents the traditional scales of justice. The alternating up-and-down movement of your hands directly mimics the two sides of a scale weighing evidence, facts, or options. This visual metaphor beautifully captures the concept of reaching a fair, balanced, and well-weighed decision.
Signing Tips
Keep your wrists relaxed as your hands move up and down. The movement shouldn't be stiff or robotic; it should have a smooth, rhythmic bounce to mimic a scale finding its balance. Make sure your "F" handshapes are clear, with your middle, ring, and pinky fingers comfortably extended and separated from the pinched index finger and thumb.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is moving both hands up and down at the exact same time instead of alternating them. Remember that one hand must go up while the other goes down, just like a traditional balancing scale. Another frequent error is using closed "O" handshapes; ensure your remaining three fingers stay extended.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Judgment" in a Sentence
1

I trust your judgment.

Point to the person, sign "trust," and then use the alternating "F" handshapes for "judgment." This shows you believe in their ability to weigh options and make a good decision.

2

The court made a final judgment.

Sign "court" or "judgment" using the alternating "F" handshapes, followed by "finish" or "decide." The context of the sentence will make it clear that you are talking about a legal ruling.

3

Don't rush to judgment.

Sign "not," "hurry," and then "judgment." The alternating movement of the "F" hands emphasizes the need to carefully weigh all the facts before coming to a conclusion.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for "judgment" the same as the sign for "judge"?

Yes, the base sign is exactly the same. However, to specify a "judge" (the profession or person), you would sign "judgment" and then immediately add the "person" marker by moving both flat hands straight down alongside your body.

Can this sign be used for "court"?

Yes! The alternating "F" handshapes are also commonly used to mean "court" or "trial." All of these concepts share the same visual root of weighing evidence and seeking justice.

Does it matter which hand moves up first?

No, it doesn't matter which hand starts the upward motion. The most important part of the sign is the continuous, alternating balancing motion between your dominant and non-dominant hands.

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