Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Strawberry"

Form either hand into an "F" handshape, fingers extended except for the index finger and thumb touching at the tip. With the palm downward, brush the tip of the pinched index finger and thumb in a downward motion along the corresponding side of the jaw twice. This is only one variation of the sign.

Examples Using "Strawberry" in a Sentence

1

I love eating fresh strawberries.

Sign "I", "LOVE", "EAT", "FRESH", and then "STRAWBERRY" by forming the "F" handshape and brushing it down your jaw twice. Emphasize your enjoyment with a pleasant facial expression while signing "LOVE" to convey the meaning naturally.

2

Do you want strawberry ice cream?

Point to the person for "YOU", then sign "WANT", "STRAWBERRY" (using the "F" handshape brushed down the jawline), and "ICE CREAM". Raise your eyebrows at the end of the sentence to indicate a yes/no question.

3

The strawberry is very sweet.

Sign "STRAWBERRY" with the downward brushing motion of your "F" handshape along your jaw, followed by "SWEET". You can intensify the sign for "SWEET" and use an affirming head nod to show that it is very sweet.

How to Sign "Strawberry"
Form either hand into an "F" handshape, fingers extended except for the index finger and thumb touching at the tip. With the palm downward, brush the tip of the pinched index finger and thumb in a downward motion along the corresponding side of the jaw twice. This is only one variation of the sign.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "strawberry" is visually motivated by the characteristics of the fruit itself. The "F" handshape, with the index finger and thumb pinched together, is often used in ASL to represent small, round objects or holding something delicate. Brushing this shape along the jawline is thought to represent the small seeds on the outside of a strawberry, or the red juice that might stain the chin after eating the fresh fruit. The double motion indicates the noun form of the concept.
Signing Tips
To sign "strawberry" clearly, focus on the "F" handshape. Make sure your index finger and thumb are pinched together firmly, while your middle, ring, and pinky fingers remain extended and relaxed. When brushing down your jawline, keep the movement light and crisp; you do not need to press hard against your face. Ensure your palm is facing downward so the tips of your pinched fingers make contact with your jaw. Keep the double downward motion consistent and rhythmic to make the sign easily recognizable.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using the wrong handshape, such as a closed fist or an "O" handshape, instead of the required "F" handshape with the fingers extended. Another common error is altering the movement by rubbing the fingers back and forth along the jaw rather than using a distinct, double downward brushing motion. Additionally, be careful not to place the sign too high on the cheek or too low on the neck; the movement should happen directly on the side of the jaw.
Regional Variations
ASL has several regional variations for "strawberry." While the "F" handshape on the jaw taught here is widely understood, you may also see signers use an index finger twisting at the chin or corner of the mouth, which is related to the sign for "red". Another variation involves signing "red" followed by a twisting motion on the tip of the nose. Always default to the local variation used by your specific Deaf community.
Examples Using "Strawberry" in a Sentence
1

I love eating fresh strawberries.

Sign "I", "LOVE", "EAT", "FRESH", and then "STRAWBERRY" by forming the "F" handshape and brushing it down your jaw twice. Emphasize your enjoyment with a pleasant facial expression while signing "LOVE" to convey the meaning naturally.

2

Do you want strawberry ice cream?

Point to the person for "YOU", then sign "WANT", "STRAWBERRY" (using the "F" handshape brushed down the jawline), and "ICE CREAM". Raise your eyebrows at the end of the sentence to indicate a yes/no question.

3

The strawberry is very sweet.

Sign "STRAWBERRY" with the downward brushing motion of your "F" handshape along your jaw, followed by "SWEET". You can intensify the sign for "SWEET" and use an affirming head nod to show that it is very sweet.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which side of the jaw I use?

You should use the side of the jaw that corresponds to your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, use your right hand in the "F" handshape and brush it down the right side of your jaw.

Should my fingers be completely straight in the "F" handshape?

Your middle, ring, and pinky fingers should be extended and comfortably spread apart, but they do not need to be rigidly straight. A natural, relaxed extension is perfect while your index finger and thumb pinch together.

How hard should I press on my jaw?

You only need to make light contact. A gentle brushing motion with the tips of your pinched index finger and thumb is sufficient. Pressing too hard can make the sign look stiff and unnatural.

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