How to Sign "Applesauce"
To sign 'applesauce', you will combine the signs for 'apple' and 'mash'. First, form an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand and press the knuckle of your index finger into your cheek, twisting it slightly to sign 'apple'. Then, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Bring your dominant hand, still in an 'A' handshape, down onto your non-dominant palm and twist it back and forth a couple of times, as if you are grinding or mashing apples into a sauce.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a highly visual compound that combines two distinct concepts. The first part is the standard sign for 'apple', which is often thought to represent the dimple created in your cheek when you bite into a crisp, sweet apple. The second part of the sign is a literal, iconic representation of the physical action of grinding, crushing, or mashing a food item into a soft, saucy consistency.
Signing Tips
When signing compound words like 'applesauce', it is important to clearly articulate both parts of the sign. Make sure you fully complete the twisting motion of 'apple' on your cheek before moving your dominant hand down to your non-dominant palm. Keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat like a plate or bowl, and use a firm, deliberate grinding motion with your dominant 'A' hand to clearly convey the idea of mashing the fruit.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is blending the two signs together too quickly, which can make the sign look sloppy or confusing. Another common error is forgetting the 'apple' portion entirely and only signing 'mash', which might lead someone to think you are talking about mashed potatoes or just the general action of crushing something. Make sure to keep the 'A' handshape consistent throughout both parts.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Applesauce" in a Sentence
1My baby loves eating applesauce.
Start by signing 'baby' by cradling your arms, then sign 'love' by crossing your fists over your chest. Follow this with 'eat' and finish with the compound sign for 'applesauce'.
2I made homemade applesauce.
Point to yourself for 'I', then sign 'make' by twisting your stacked fists. Finally, sign 'applesauce' by combining the 'apple' sign on your cheek with the mashing motion on your palm.
3Do you want applesauce with your lunch?
Point to the person for 'you', then sign 'want' by pulling open hands toward you. Sign 'applesauce', then 'with' by bringing two 'A' hands together, and finish with 'lunch'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the second part of this sign for other sauces?
Yes, the mashing or grinding motion can be used to describe the consistency of other mashed foods, purees, or thick sauces. You would simply change the first sign to indicate the specific ingredient, such as signing 'berry' before the mashing motion.
Do I need to change my handshape between the two parts of the sign?
No, one of the reasons this compound sign flows so well is that your dominant hand remains in an 'A' handshape for both the 'apple' sign on your cheek and the mashing motion on your palm.
Is it okay to just fingerspell 'applesauce'?
While fingerspelling is always an acceptable option if you forget a sign, using the compound sign for 'applesauce' is much faster and more visually descriptive. It is widely understood and preferred in everyday ASL conversations.
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