how to say red in sign language

2 min read 07-10-2024

Red in Sign Language: A Colorful Guide

Want to express your love for crimson, scarlet, or ruby red in sign language? Learning how to sign colors can be fun and enriching. Let's dive into the world of red in sign language!

The Universal Sign? Not So Fast!

You might have heard that there's a universal sign for red, often described as touching the tip of your nose with your index finger. While this gesture is frequently used in American Sign Language (ASL), it's not universally recognized.

Why? Different sign languages, just like spoken languages, evolve independently. Sign languages are geographically and culturally specific, meaning they develop unique signs and expressions. So, while the "nose touch" might work in the United States, it may not be understood in other countries.

The ASL Way: "Red" on Your Nose

As mentioned, the "nose touch" is the most common sign for red in ASL. Here's how you do it:

Start with your dominant hand in a "5" handshape: All fingers extended and spread apart.
Bring the index finger to the tip of your nose: Make sure to touch gently.
Hold the handshape briefly: This gesture represents the color itself.

Pro Tip: Practice the sign in front of a mirror to ensure you're making the handshape correctly.

Beyond the Basic: Context Matters

While the "nose touch" is a great starting point, remember that context matters in any language. Here are some additional tips:

Use descriptive signs: If you need to be more specific about the shade of red, you can add descriptive signs like "light" or "dark" before the "red" sign.
Show me, don't tell me: If you're referring to a specific object that's red, point to it while signing "red." This helps clarify your meaning.

Expanding Your Colorful Vocabulary

Learning to sign "red" is just the beginning. You can expand your color vocabulary by learning other colors in ASL:

Blue: This sign resembles the shape of a "B," with your thumb and pinky extended and your other fingers folded inside your palm.
Yellow: The sign involves using a flat handshape and bringing it down in front of your chest, mimicking the sun's rays.
Green: This sign is made by using a "V" handshape and bringing it up to your forehead, like you're putting a hat on.

Resources for Further Exploration

Want to learn more about sign language? Here are some resources you can check out:

Lifeprint: This organization offers comprehensive ASL resources, including online classes, dictionaries, and educational materials. (https://www.lifeprint.com/)
Handspeak: Explore their website for free ASL videos, sign language dictionaries, and interactive learning tools. (https://www.handspeak.com/)

Remember, the beauty of sign language lies in its visual nature and its ability to connect with people on a deeper level. So, whether you're learning "red" or exploring other signs, embrace the journey and enjoy the process of communication!