How to Sign "Where Are You"

To sign 'where are you', start by pointing your index finger directly at the person you are talking to. Then, point your index finger up with your palm facing forward, and wag it side to side a few times. Make sure to furrow your eyebrows, as this is the required facial expression for 'wh-' questions in ASL.

Examples Using "Where Are You" in a Sentence

1

Where are you?

Simply point your index finger at the person, then wag your index finger side to side while furrowing your eyebrows to ask the question.

2

Where are you from?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'from', and finish with the wagging index finger for 'where', keeping your eyebrows furrowed throughout.

3

Where are you working?

Sign 'you' by pointing, then sign 'work', and finally sign 'where' by wagging your finger, making sure to use the correct furrowed brow expression.

How to Sign "Where Are You"
To sign 'where are you', start by pointing your index finger directly at the person you are talking to. Then, point your index finger up with your palm facing forward, and wag it side to side a few times. Make sure to furrow your eyebrows, as this is the required facial expression for 'wh-' questions in ASL.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase is a straightforward combination of two highly iconic signs. The sign for 'you' relies on the natural, universal gesture of pointing directly at the person you are addressing. The sign for 'where' uses the index finger pointing upward and wagging side to side. This motion visually represents a person pointing around in multiple different directions, as if they are actively searching for something or trying to locate a specific place. Together with the furrowed eyebrows, the visual logic of the question is very clear.
Signing Tips
When signing 'where are you', the most important element to focus on is your facial expression. Always remember to furrow your eyebrows and tilt your head slightly forward. In American Sign Language, non-manual markers like facial expressions are a crucial part of the grammar. Furrowed brows specifically signal to the other person that you are asking a 'wh-' question. Additionally, keep the wagging motion of your index finger for 'where' relatively small and controlled, moving primarily from your wrist rather than your entire arm.
Common Mistakes
The most frequent mistake beginners make with 'where are you' is completely forgetting the facial expression. If you keep your face neutral or accidentally raise your eyebrows (which is used for yes/no questions), the person you are signing to might be confused or not realize you are asking a question at all. Another common error is wagging the finger too wildly or using the whole arm for the 'where' sign. The movement should be a crisp, controlled side-to-side wag originating from the wrist.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Where Are You" in a Sentence
1

Where are you?

Simply point your index finger at the person, then wag your index finger side to side while furrowing your eyebrows to ask the question.

2

Where are you from?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'from', and finish with the wagging index finger for 'where', keeping your eyebrows furrowed throughout.

3

Where are you working?

Sign 'you' by pointing, then sign 'work', and finally sign 'where' by wagging your finger, making sure to use the correct furrowed brow expression.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to sign the word 'are'?

No, you do not. American Sign Language has its own distinct grammar and does not use 'to be' verbs like 'am', 'is', or 'are'. You simply sign 'you' and 'where' to convey the entire meaning.

Why do I have to furrow my eyebrows?

In ASL, facial expressions act as grammatical markers. Furrowed eyebrows specifically indicate a 'wh-' question (who, what, where, when, why). Without this expression, the grammatical structure of your question is incomplete.

Can I sign 'where' first, and then 'you'?

Yes, signing 'where you' is also grammatically correct in ASL. Both 'you where' and 'where you' are acceptable, but establishing the subject ('you') before asking the question ('where') is a very common and natural structure.

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