To sign lemon, start by forming an 'L' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your index finger pointing up and your thumb extended to the side. Place the tip of your thumb against your chin, just below your mouth. Then, bend your index finger down a couple of times. This motion looks a bit like you are squeezing a wedge of lemon near your mouth.
Sign 'need,' then sign 'lemon' by tapping your 'L' handshape's index finger down at your chin, followed by the sign for 'recipe'.
Sign 'lemon' and then 'water' to mean lemonade, followed by the sign for 'sour' while making an exaggerated, puckered facial expression.
Point to the person for 'you,' sign 'like,' then 'lemon,' and finally 'cake,' making sure to raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
Sign 'need,' then sign 'lemon' by tapping your 'L' handshape's index finger down at your chin, followed by the sign for 'recipe'.
Sign 'lemon' and then 'water' to mean lemonade, followed by the sign for 'sour' while making an exaggerated, puckered facial expression.
Point to the person for 'you,' sign 'like,' then 'lemon,' and finally 'cake,' making sure to raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
They are very similar in location and movement, but 'lemon' specifically uses an 'L' handshape, whereas 'sour' typically uses an index finger pointing up (a '1' handshape) that twists or bends at the chin.
You do not have to make a sour face just to say the noun 'lemon', but if you are describing how a lemon tastes or emphasizing its tartness, adding that facial expression provides great context.
Always use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, form the 'L' shape with your right hand and place your right thumb on your chin. Keep your non-dominant hand relaxed.
