How to Sign "Might"

To sign 'might', hold both hands in front of your chest with open, flat palms facing upward. Alternately move your hands up and down a few times, as if you are weighing two options on a scale. Be sure to include a slightly uncertain or questioning facial expression to match the meaning of the word.

Examples Using "Might" in a Sentence

1

I might go to the party.

Sign 'I', then use the alternating 'might' sign, followed by 'go' and 'party'. Your facial expression should show that you haven't fully decided yet.

2

It might rain tomorrow.

Start by signing 'tomorrow', then 'rain', and finish with 'might'. The alternating movement of your hands emphasizes the uncertainty of the weather.

3

We might eat pizza tonight.

Sign 'tonight', 'we', 'eat', 'pizza', and then 'might'. The 'might' sign at the end shows that the dinner plan is still up in the air.

How to Sign "Might"
To sign 'might', hold both hands in front of your chest with open, flat palms facing upward. Alternately move your hands up and down a few times, as if you are weighing two options on a scale. Be sure to include a slightly uncertain or questioning facial expression to match the meaning of the word.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'might' is highly iconic and visually represents the concept of weighing different options. The alternating up-and-down movement of the hands mimics a balancing scale, perfectly capturing the feeling of uncertainty or having to choose between possibilities.
Signing Tips
When signing 'might', remember that your facial expression is just as important as your hands. Since 'might' implies uncertainty, try tilting your head slightly, shrugging your shoulders a bit, or furrowing your brows. Keep your hands relaxed and the alternating up-and-down movement fluid, rather than stiff or robotic.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is moving both hands up and down at the exact same time. Remember that the hands must alternate—when one goes up, the other goes down. Another frequent error is signing with a blank face; without an uncertain facial expression, the meaning of the sign isn't fully conveyed.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Might" in a Sentence
1

I might go to the party.

Sign 'I', then use the alternating 'might' sign, followed by 'go' and 'party'. Your facial expression should show that you haven't fully decided yet.

2

It might rain tomorrow.

Start by signing 'tomorrow', then 'rain', and finish with 'might'. The alternating movement of your hands emphasizes the uncertainty of the weather.

3

We might eat pizza tonight.

Sign 'tonight', 'we', 'eat', 'pizza', and then 'might'. The 'might' sign at the end shows that the dinner plan is still up in the air.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'might' the same as 'maybe'?

Yes, 'might' and 'maybe' share the exact same sign in ASL. Because ASL is a conceptual language, signs represent ideas rather than direct English translations. The context of your sentence will clarify the meaning.

How big should the up-and-down movement be?

The movement should be relatively small and natural, with your hands moving just a few inches up and down in front of your chest. Avoid making large, exaggerated motions.

Does it matter which hand goes up first?

No, it doesn't matter which hand starts the upward movement. As long as your hands are alternating in a smooth, balancing motion, the sign will be understood perfectly.

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