How to Sign "Broccoli"
To sign 'broccoli', you will fingerspell the word. Using your dominant hand, form the letters B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I. Keep your hand steady in front of your shoulder, focusing on clear and distinct letter shapes rather than speed.
Examples Using "Broccoli" in a Sentence
1
I like eating broccoli.
Sign 'I', 'LIKE', 'EAT', and then fingerspell B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I clearly.
2
Broccoli is green.
Fingerspell B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I, then sign 'GREEN' by shaking a 'G' handshape.
3
Do you want broccoli with dinner?
Sign 'DINNER', fingerspell B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I, point to the person for 'YOU', and sign 'WANT' with raised eyebrows to ask a yes/no question.
How to Sign "Broccoli"
To sign 'broccoli', you will fingerspell the word. Using your dominant hand, form the letters B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I. Keep your hand steady in front of your shoulder, focusing on clear and distinct letter shapes rather than speed.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
Because there is no universally standardized, single sign for 'broccoli' in ASL, the word is simply fingerspelled. This is very common for specific types of fruits, vegetables, and other foods that do not have a highly iconic visual representation.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling a longer word like 'broccoli', focus on clarity rather than speed. Keep your hand in a comfortable, steady position near your shoulder. To indicate the double 'C', you can either slide your hand slightly outward or quickly pulse the 'C' handshape twice.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is bouncing their hand up and down for each letter, which makes the word very difficult to read. Try to keep your wrist and arm steady, letting your fingers do the work. Also, avoid rushing and blurring the letters together.
Regional Variations
While fingerspelling is the standard, some signers in casual settings might use a descriptive compound sign, such as signing 'GREEN' followed by a modified 'TREE' sign to mimic the look of a broccoli floret.
Examples Using "Broccoli" in a Sentence
1I like eating broccoli.
Sign 'I', 'LIKE', 'EAT', and then fingerspell B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I clearly.
2Broccoli is green.
Fingerspell B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I, then sign 'GREEN' by shaking a 'G' handshape.
3Do you want broccoli with dinner?
Sign 'DINNER', fingerspell B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I, point to the person for 'YOU', and sign 'WANT' with raised eyebrows to ask a yes/no question.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific sign for broccoli, or is it always fingerspelled?
Fingerspelling B-R-O-C-C-O-L-I is the most standard and universally understood way to express it in ASL. While some people might invent descriptive signs like 'GREEN TREE' in casual conversation, fingerspelling is the accepted method.
How do I show the double 'C' when fingerspelling?
To show a double letter like 'C', you can either slide your hand slightly to the outside (away from your body) while holding the 'C' shape, or you can quickly open and close the 'C' shape twice.
Do I need to fingerspell fast to be understood?
No, clarity is much more important than speed! It is always better to fingerspell slowly and clearly so your conversation partner can easily read the letters. Speed will naturally develop as you practice.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!