How to Sign "Bitch"
To make the sign bitch, take your dominant hand in the B handshape and place it below your chin. Then you will flick your hand outward.
Examples Using "Bitch" in a Sentence
1
She is being a bitch today.
Point to the person for 'SHE', then form the 'B' handshape under your chin and flick it outward for 'BITCH', followed by the sign for 'TODAY'. Ensure your facial expression matches the negative tone of the sentence.
2
Stop acting like a bitch.
Sign 'STOP', then 'ACT', and finally execute the sign for 'BITCH' by sharply flicking your 'B' hand outward from your chin. A stern or annoyed facial expression is crucial to convey the correct meaning.
3
I don't want to be a bitch, but we need to leave.
Sign 'I', 'NOT', 'WANT', then use the 'B' handshape flicking outward from the chin for 'BITCH'. Follow this with 'BUT', 'WE', 'MUST', 'LEAVE'. Use an apologetic yet firm facial expression.
How to Sign "Bitch"
To make the sign bitch, take your dominant hand in the B handshape and place it below your chin. Then you will flick your hand outward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized sign that borrows from the ASL location for female-gendered words. In ASL, signs related to females (like mother, girl, or aunt) are located on or near the chin and lower face. By using the English initial 'B' in this female-designated location and adding a sharp, dismissive outward flick, the sign visually represents the derogatory English word.
Signing Tips
When signing this word, your facial expression is just as important as the hand movement. Since this is a strong, derogatory term, your face should reflect annoyance, anger, or disdain. Make sure the 'B' handshape starts cleanly under the chin and the outward flick is sharp and deliberate to convey the appropriate intensity.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a loose handshape instead of a crisp, flat 'B' handshape. Beginners also sometimes flick the hand too far down toward the chest rather than straight outward from the chin. Additionally, signing this word with a neutral or smiling facial expression will confuse the meaning, as the sign requires a matching negative expression.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Bitch" in a Sentence
1She is being a bitch today.
Point to the person for 'SHE', then form the 'B' handshape under your chin and flick it outward for 'BITCH', followed by the sign for 'TODAY'. Ensure your facial expression matches the negative tone of the sentence.
2Stop acting like a bitch.
Sign 'STOP', then 'ACT', and finally execute the sign for 'BITCH' by sharply flicking your 'B' hand outward from your chin. A stern or annoyed facial expression is crucial to convey the correct meaning.
3I don't want to be a bitch, but we need to leave.
Sign 'I', 'NOT', 'WANT', then use the 'B' handshape flicking outward from the chin for 'BITCH'. Follow this with 'BUT', 'WE', 'MUST', 'LEAVE'. Use an apologetic yet firm facial expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign considered highly offensive in Deaf culture?
Yes, just like in spoken English, this is a strong profanity and is considered derogatory. It carries the same heavy weight in ASL and should be used with caution and awareness of your audience.
Does this sign also mean a female dog in ASL?
No. In ASL, if you are referring to a female dog (the literal animal), you would sign 'FEMALE' followed by 'DOG'. The sign with the 'B' handshape under the chin is strictly used for the insult or slang term.
Why is the sign located on the chin?
In ASL, the lower half of the face, specifically the chin and jawline, is traditionally the location for female-related signs. This sign combines that location with the English letter 'B' to create the specific meaning.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!