How to Sign "Right"
the sign 'right' uses both hands. ball both hands into fists, leaving the index fingers extended. with the palms both facing inwards, tap the lower edge of the dominant hand against the upper edge of the non-dominant hand.
Examples Using "Right" in a Sentence
1
You are right about that.
Point to the person you are speaking to, then sign 'right' by tapping the lower edge of your dominant index-finger fist against the upper edge of your non-dominant one.
2
Is this the right answer?
Sign 'this', then 'right' using the tapping index fingers, followed by 'answer'. Remember to keep your eyebrows raised throughout the sentence to indicate you are asking a yes/no question.
3
That is exactly right!
Point to the object or concept, then sign 'right' with a single, firm, and crisp tap of your dominant hand to emphasize your certainty.
How to Sign "Right"
the sign 'right' uses both hands. ball both hands into fists, leaving the index fingers extended. with the palms both facing inwards, tap the lower edge of the dominant hand against the upper edge of the non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents two things aligning perfectly. The index fingers coming together and striking squarely on top of one another symbolize hitting the mark or things matching up exactly, which naturally conveys the concept of being correct or accurate.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand steady to act as a solid base. Ensure only your index fingers are extended, like the number one, and use a crisp, deliberate tapping motion with your dominant hand to convey confidence and certainty.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake for beginners is confusing this sign with the direction 'right'. Tapping your extended index fingers together means 'correct' or 'right'. The direction 'right' is signed differently, typically by moving an 'R' handshape toward your right side.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Right" in a Sentence
1You are right about that.
Point to the person you are speaking to, then sign 'right' by tapping the lower edge of your dominant index-finger fist against the upper edge of your non-dominant one.
2Is this the right answer?
Sign 'this', then 'right' using the tapping index fingers, followed by 'answer'. Remember to keep your eyebrows raised throughout the sentence to indicate you are asking a yes/no question.
3That is exactly right!
Point to the object or concept, then sign 'right' with a single, firm, and crisp tap of your dominant hand to emphasize your certainty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign mean the direction 'right' or 'correct'?
This specific sign—tapping the index fingers together—means 'right' as in 'correct' or 'accurate'. If you want to indicate the direction 'right', you would use an 'R' handshape and move it to the right.
How many times should I tap my hands together?
Usually, a single, firm tap is used to say 'right' or 'correct'. If you tap it twice quickly, it can be used to emphasize that something is exactly right or perfectly accurate.
Do my palms need to face a specific way?
Yes, your palms should face inwards towards your body's center. This positions your hands so that the pinky side (lower edge) of your dominant hand taps the thumb side (upper edge) of your non-dominant hand.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!