How to Sign "Question"

Either hand can be used to form a fist with only the index finger extended and the palm facing downward. Proceed to draw a curve in the air that represents the bell part of a question mark in the air. Curl in the index finger slightly while continuing the motion and then extend it again to draw the dot at the bottom.

Examples Using "Question" in a Sentence

1

I have a question.

Point to yourself to sign 'I', sign 'have' by bringing both bent hands to your chest, and then use your dominant index finger to draw the question mark shape in the air.

2

Can I ask you a question?

After signing 'I' and 'ask', draw the question mark in the air. Make sure to finish the sign by extending your index finger to clearly dot the bottom of the shape.

3

That is a good question.

Sign 'that', followed by 'good' moving from your chin to your opposite hand, and finish by tracing the question mark shape in the air with your dominant index finger.

How to Sign "Question"
Either hand can be used to form a fist with only the index finger extended and the palm facing downward. Proceed to draw a curve in the air that represents the bell part of a question mark in the air. Curl in the index finger slightly while continuing the motion and then extend it again to draw the dot at the bottom.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and literal. It visually mimics the act of drawing a punctuation mark in the air. By tracing the curve and then dotting the bottom with your index finger, you are sketching out a physical question mark.
Signing Tips
To make your sign clear and natural, use your dominant hand to draw the question mark. Keep the movement relatively small and contained in front of your chest or face. You do not need to draw a massive shape; a quick, fluid motion with a distinct 'dot' at the bottom is perfect.
Common Mistakes
A common beginner mistake is drawing the question mark backward, as if trying to make it readable from the viewer's perspective. Always draw it exactly how you would write it on paper. Another mistake is forgetting to uncurl the index finger at the end to create the 'dot'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Question" in a Sentence
1

I have a question.

Point to yourself to sign 'I', sign 'have' by bringing both bent hands to your chest, and then use your dominant index finger to draw the question mark shape in the air.

2

Can I ask you a question?

After signing 'I' and 'ask', draw the question mark in the air. Make sure to finish the sign by extending your index finger to clearly dot the bottom of the shape.

3

That is a good question.

Sign 'that', followed by 'good' moving from your chin to your opposite hand, and finish by tracing the question mark shape in the air with your dominant index finger.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I draw the question mark facing me or the person I am talking to?

You should draw the question mark exactly as you would write it on a piece of paper. Do not try to flip it backward for the other person to read; fluent signers are used to seeing it drawn from the signer's perspective.

Is this sign used for the verb 'to ask' as well?

While this sign specifically represents the noun 'question' or the punctuation mark, the verb 'to ask' is very similar. 'Ask' often uses the same index finger motion but moves directionally toward the person being asked.

How big should I draw the question mark?

Keep it comfortably within your signing space, right in front of your upper chest or shoulder. Drawing it too large can look exaggerated. A quick, concise curve and dot about the size of a small plate is ideal.

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