To sign ketchup, start by holding your non-dominant hand in a closed fist in front of you, as if you are gripping a bottle. Keep your dominant hand open and flat, with your fingers together. Tap the palm of your dominant hand against the side or bottom of your non-dominant fist twice. This repetitive tapping motion mimics the familiar action of hitting a stubborn glass bottle to get the ketchup to pour out.
To ask this, sign 'ketchup' and then 'fries'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward while signing to indicate you are asking a question.
Sign 'ketchup' followed by the sign for 'none' or 'all gone'. Shake your head slightly while signing to emphasize that the bottle is completely empty and you need to get more.
Sign 'please', then 'ketchup', and use a directional gesture to indicate passing it toward yourself. Make eye contact with the person you are asking to ensure your request is clear.
To ask this, sign 'ketchup' and then 'fries'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean slightly forward while signing to indicate you are asking a question.
Sign 'ketchup' followed by the sign for 'none' or 'all gone'. Shake your head slightly while signing to emphasize that the bottle is completely empty and you need to get more.
Sign 'please', then 'ketchup', and use a directional gesture to indicate passing it toward yourself. Make eye contact with the person you are asking to ensure your request is clear.
Most signers tap either the pinky-side (representing the bottom of the bottle) or the back of the hand. As long as the motion clearly mimics hitting a bottle, the sign will be easily understood by others.
Yes, it is very helpful to mouth the word 'ketchup' while signing. Mouthing helps clarify your meaning, especially since similar tapping motions can sometimes be used to describe other actions or objects.
A gentle but firm double-tap is all you need. There is no need to strike your hand forcefully; the movement is simply symbolic of hitting a glass bottle, so keep it light and comfortable.
