How to Sign "Maybe"
The sign 'maybe' uses both hands. Relax both hands so the palms are facing up. With the hands at chest height, move one hand up, then move it down as the other hand goes up.
Examples Using "Maybe" in a Sentence
1
Maybe we can go to the park tomorrow.
Sign 'maybe' at the beginning of the sentence by alternating your relaxed, upward-facing hands up and down at chest height, then follow with the signs for 'tomorrow', 'park', and 'go'.
2
Are you coming to the party? Maybe.
You can use this sign as a complete one-word answer. Simply reply by signing 'maybe' with the alternating weighing motion, making sure to include an uncertain facial expression to convey your hesitation.
3
I will maybe buy a new car.
Use the 'maybe' sign before the sign for 'buy' to show your uncertainty. Keep your palms facing up and alternate their height smoothly to visually demonstrate that you are still weighing your options.
How to Sign "Maybe"
The sign 'maybe' uses both hands. Relax both hands so the palms are facing up. With the hands at chest height, move one hand up, then move it down as the other hand goes up.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'maybe' is highly iconic, meaning it visually represents the concept it describes. The alternating up-and-down movement of your hands mimics a traditional balance scale. When you are unsure about something, you are figuratively weighing your options or balancing different possibilities in your mind. By holding your relaxed hands out with palms facing up and shifting their heights, you are physically acting out the mental process of deciding between two different choices, perfectly capturing the essence of the word 'maybe'.
Signing Tips
To make your sign for 'maybe' look natural, focus on the fluidity of the movement. Imagine your hands are the two trays of an old-fashioned balance scale. The motion should be smooth and gentle, not jerky or robotic. Keep your fingers relaxed rather than rigidly straight. Most importantly, pair this sign with an uncertain facial expression—try tilting your head slightly, raising your eyebrows, or pursing your lips. In ASL, your face conveys the tone of the message, so looking unsure perfectly complements the meaning of 'maybe'.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is keeping their hands and fingers too stiff, which makes the sign look unnatural. Remember to keep your hands relaxed with the palms facing up. Another common error is moving both hands up and down at the same time; the hands must alternate, with one going up while the other goes down. Finally, beginners often forget to use a non-manual signal (facial expression). Signing 'maybe' with a blank, neutral face loses the context of uncertainty, so always remember to look a bit unsure!
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Maybe" in a Sentence
1Maybe we can go to the park tomorrow.
Sign 'maybe' at the beginning of the sentence by alternating your relaxed, upward-facing hands up and down at chest height, then follow with the signs for 'tomorrow', 'park', and 'go'.
2Are you coming to the party? Maybe.
You can use this sign as a complete one-word answer. Simply reply by signing 'maybe' with the alternating weighing motion, making sure to include an uncertain facial expression to convey your hesitation.
3I will maybe buy a new car.
Use the 'maybe' sign before the sign for 'buy' to show your uncertainty. Keep your palms facing up and alternate their height smoothly to visually demonstrate that you are still weighing your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a specific facial expression for 'maybe'?
Yes! In ASL, your face provides the tone. When signing 'maybe', you should look slightly uncertain. Try tilting your head, raising your eyebrows, or pursing your lips. This non-manual signal matches the feeling of weighing your options and makes your signing much clearer.
How many times should I move my hands up and down?
There is no strict rule, but typically you alternate your hands up and down about two or three times. A quick, single movement might not register clearly, while bouncing your hands too many times can look exaggerated or overly dramatic. Keep it brief and natural.
Is 'maybe' the same sign as 'probably'?
No, they are distinct signs. 'Maybe' uses two hands alternating up and down to show weighing options. 'Probably' or 'likely' is signed differently, often using a motion related to the sign for 'true'. Stick to the alternating scale motion specifically for 'maybe'.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!