Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Vegetables"

Form a 'V' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers. Place the tip of your index finger against your cheek, just to the side of your mouth. Then, twist your wrist backward so that your index finger lifts off and your middle finger taps the same spot on your cheek.

Examples Using "Vegetables" in a Sentence

1

You need to eat your vegetables.

To sign this, you would sign 'YOU', 'NEED', 'EAT', and then finish with the sign for 'VEGETABLES' by twisting the 'V' handshape on your cheek.

2

I like growing vegetables in my garden.

Sign 'I', 'LIKE', and 'GROW', then use the 'V' handshape on your cheek for 'VEGETABLES'. You can follow this with the sign for 'GARDEN'.

3

What is your favorite vegetable?

Sign 'YOUR', 'FAVORITE', and 'VEGETABLE'. Finish by signing 'WHAT' while furrowing your eyebrows to show you are asking a wh-question.

How to Sign "Vegetables"
Form a 'V' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your index and middle fingers. Place the tip of your index finger against your cheek, just to the side of your mouth. Then, twist your wrist backward so that your index finger lifts off and your middle finger taps the same spot on your cheek.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is known as an initialized sign, meaning it incorporates the first letter of the English word it translates. It uses the 'V' handshape for 'vegetable' and places it near the mouth, which is the location commonly used in ASL for signs related to food, eating, and taste.
Signing Tips
Keep your 'V' handshape relaxed but clearly defined. The movement should be a simple, fluid twist of the wrist, pivoting from the index finger to the middle finger. You don't need to move your whole arm; let your wrist do the work to keep the sign looking natural.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is dragging the fingers across the cheek instead of tapping and twisting. Make sure to clearly tap the index finger, twist your wrist, and then tap the middle finger. Another mistake is placing the hand too high near the eye; keep it down near the side of your mouth.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Vegetables" in a Sentence
1

You need to eat your vegetables.

To sign this, you would sign 'YOU', 'NEED', 'EAT', and then finish with the sign for 'VEGETABLES' by twisting the 'V' handshape on your cheek.

2

I like growing vegetables in my garden.

Sign 'I', 'LIKE', and 'GROW', then use the 'V' handshape on your cheek for 'VEGETABLES'. You can follow this with the sign for 'GARDEN'.

3

What is your favorite vegetable?

Sign 'YOUR', 'FAVORITE', and 'VEGETABLE'. Finish by signing 'WHAT' while furrowing your eyebrows to show you are asking a wh-question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'vegetable' similar to 'fruit'?

They are similar in location and movement, but use different handshapes. 'Vegetable' uses a 'V' handshape twisted on the cheek, while 'fruit' uses an 'F' handshape placed on the cheek with a slight twisting motion.

Do I need to add an 'S' to make the sign plural?

No, in ASL, the sign for 'vegetable' can mean singular or plural depending entirely on the context of your sentence. You do not need to add a separate sign or fingerspell the letter 'S' at the end.

Which hand should I use to sign this?

You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs like this. If you are right-handed, use your right hand on the right side of your face. If you are left-handed, use your left hand on the left side.

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