How to Sign "Miracle"

To sign 'miracle', start with both hands in 'S' handshapes (closed fists) near your upper chest or shoulders, with your palms facing forward. Move both hands upwards and slightly outwards while opening your fingers into '5' handshapes. The movement should be bright and expressive.

Examples Using "Miracle" in a Sentence

1

It is a miracle that we arrived on time.

Sign 'miracle' by starting with closed fists and opening them into '5' handshapes as you move them up and out, showing relief and surprise on your face.

2

Her quick recovery was a true miracle.

Use the sign for 'miracle' to emphasize the amazing nature of the recovery, ensuring your hands open fully to convey a sense of wonder.

3

I need a miracle to pass this math test.

Sign 'miracle' with a slightly more desperate or hopeful facial expression to match the context of needing something nearly impossible to happen.

How to Sign "Miracle"
To sign 'miracle', start with both hands in 'S' handshapes (closed fists) near your upper chest or shoulders, with your palms facing forward. Move both hands upwards and slightly outwards while opening your fingers into '5' handshapes. The movement should be bright and expressive.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents something incredible bursting forth or being revealed. The motion of closed fists opening up into wide hands naturally conveys a sense of sudden wonder, greatness, and awe associated with a miraculous event.
Signing Tips
When signing 'miracle', your facial expression is just as important as your hands. Make sure your face shows awe, surprise, or joy to truly convey the meaning of the word. The movement from closed fists to open hands should be crisp and deliberate.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is keeping a neutral facial expression. Without a look of wonder or surprise, the sign loses its emotional impact. Another mistake is not fully opening the hands into '5' handshapes at the end of the movement.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Miracle" in a Sentence
1

It is a miracle that we arrived on time.

Sign 'miracle' by starting with closed fists and opening them into '5' handshapes as you move them up and out, showing relief and surprise on your face.

2

Her quick recovery was a true miracle.

Use the sign for 'miracle' to emphasize the amazing nature of the recovery, ensuring your hands open fully to convey a sense of wonder.

3

I need a miracle to pass this math test.

Sign 'miracle' with a slightly more desperate or hopeful facial expression to match the context of needing something nearly impossible to happen.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign related to 'wonderful' or 'amazing'?

Yes, it is very similar! The concepts of 'miracle', 'wonderful', and 'amazing' share related handshapes and movements because they all convey a sense of awe and greatness. The specific motion of opening from fists emphasizes the sudden revelation of a miracle.

Do I have to use both hands to sign 'miracle'?

Yes, 'miracle' is a symmetrical two-handed sign. Using both hands is standard and helps to properly convey the magnitude and importance of the concept you are expressing.

How fast should the movement be?

The movement should be relatively quick and bright. A crisp transition from closed fists to open hands helps illustrate the sudden and surprising nature of a miracle.

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