Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Red"

to sign 'red', bring the dominant hand up towards the mouth. bring all the fingers into a fist, but leave the index finger extended. press the fingertip of the index finger against the lower lip and pull the finger down so it curves into the x letter shape.

Examples Using "Red" in a Sentence

1

My favorite color is red.

Sign 'MY FAVORITE COLOR', then perform the sign for 'red' by bringing your dominant index finger to your lower lip and pulling it down into an 'X' shape.

2

I want that red apple.

Point to the apple, sign 'APPLE', then sign 'RED' by brushing your index finger down your lip. Finish by signing 'I WANT'.

3

Her dress is bright red.

Sign 'HER DRESS', then sign 'RED'. To emphasize that it is 'bright red', you can make the downward pulling motion of the 'X' shape slightly sharper and more pronounced.

How to Sign "Red"
to sign 'red', bring the dominant hand up towards the mouth. bring all the fingers into a fist, but leave the index finger extended. press the fingertip of the index finger against the lower lip and pull the finger down so it curves into the x letter shape.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'red' is a great example of an iconic sign. It draws attention to the lips, which are naturally the reddest part of the human face. The downward brushing motion visually mimics the act of applying red lipstick to the lower lip.
Signing Tips
For a natural-looking sign, focus on the smooth transition from the straight index finger to the curved 'X' shape. The movement should be a single, fluid downward stroke starting right at the lower lip. Keep the motion relatively small; there is no need to drag your hand far down your chin.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is forgetting to bend the index finger into the 'X' shape at the end of the movement, leaving it straight the entire time. Beginners also sometimes drag the finger too far down the chin or neck, rather than keeping the movement short and close to the mouth.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Red" in a Sentence
1

My favorite color is red.

Sign 'MY FAVORITE COLOR', then perform the sign for 'red' by bringing your dominant index finger to your lower lip and pulling it down into an 'X' shape.

2

I want that red apple.

Point to the apple, sign 'APPLE', then sign 'RED' by brushing your index finger down your lip. Finish by signing 'I WANT'.

3

Her dress is bright red.

Sign 'HER DRESS', then sign 'RED'. To emphasize that it is 'bright red', you can make the downward pulling motion of the 'X' shape slightly sharper and more pronounced.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I actually touch my lip, or just sign in front of it?

You should make light physical contact. Gently press the pad or tip of your dominant index finger against your lower lip before pulling it downward into the 'X' handshape.

Does it matter which hand I use to sign 'red'?

You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs like 'red'. If you are right-handed, use your right hand; if you are left-handed, use your left hand.

Are the signs for 'red' and 'pink' related?

Yes, they are! Both signs are located at the mouth because they reference the natural color of lips. However, 'red' uses the index finger curling into an 'X', while 'pink' uses a 'P' handshape.

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