How to Sign "Try"

The sign 'try' uses both hands. Clench both hands into fists, with the thumbs pressed between the middle and index fingers. This will make the T hand shape. Strat with the palms facing you and close to the chest. Slowly rotate both wrists inwards, then out so the palms are facing away from you. As you rotate, move the hands out and away from you.

Examples Using "Try" in a Sentence

1

I will try my best.

Point to yourself for 'I', perform the 'try' sign by pushing your 'T' hands forward and rotating them outward, and then sign 'best'.

2

Try to eat your vegetables.

Start with the 'try' sign using both 'T' hands moving away from your chest, then sign 'eat' and 'vegetables'.

3

Did you try the new game?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'try' with the forward twisting motion of your 'T' hands, then sign 'new' and 'game' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Try"
The sign 'try' uses both hands. Clench both hands into fists, with the thumbs pressed between the middle and index fingers. This will make the T hand shape. Strat with the palms facing you and close to the chest. Slowly rotate both wrists inwards, then out so the palms are facing away from you. As you rotate, move the hands out and away from you.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'try' visually represents the concept of putting forth effort or pushing through a barrier. The forward, twisting motion of the hands mimics the physical exertion of pushing something forward or turning a key to unlock a difficult situation.
Signing Tips
Make sure your thumbs are tucked correctly between your index and middle fingers to form a clear 'T' handshape on both hands. The movement should be a smooth, continuous arc. Keep the motion deliberate to visually show the effort of trying.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using 'S' or 'A' handshapes (resting the thumb on the outside of the fingers) instead of the required 'T' handshape. Beginners also sometimes push their hands straight forward without the wrist rotation, which makes the sign look stiff.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Try" in a Sentence
1

I will try my best.

Point to yourself for 'I', perform the 'try' sign by pushing your 'T' hands forward and rotating them outward, and then sign 'best'.

2

Try to eat your vegetables.

Start with the 'try' sign using both 'T' hands moving away from your chest, then sign 'eat' and 'vegetables'.

3

Did you try the new game?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'try' with the forward twisting motion of your 'T' hands, then sign 'new' and 'game' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use just one hand to sign 'try'?

No, 'try' is a symmetrical two-handed sign. You need to use both hands in the 'T' handshape, moving them together from your chest outward to convey the meaning correctly.

What exactly is the 'T' handshape?

To make a 'T' handshape, clench your hand into a fist and tuck your thumb firmly between your index and middle fingers. It looks a bit like you've 'stolen someone's nose' in the classic childhood game.

How fast should I move my hands when signing 'try'?

The speed can reflect the amount of effort. A standard 'try' is a smooth, moderate pace. If you are trying really hard, you might make the motion slower and more tense to show the struggle!

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