How to Sign "Fornication"

To sign "fornication," form both hands into "V" handshapes with your index and middle fingers extended and palms facing down. Bring your hands together in front of your body so that the extended fingers of both hands tap or cross against each other. The movement is typically a single, deliberate tap.

Examples Using "Fornication" in a Sentence

1

The pastor preached about the dangers of fornication.

Sign "pastor," "preach," and "danger," then use the "V" handshapes tapping together to represent "fornication."

2

Fornication is often discussed in health class.

Sign "health," "class," and "discuss," then use the tapping "V" handshapes to establish the topic.

3

They read a book about the history of fornication.

Sign "read," "book," and "history," and finish with the "V" handshapes tapping together.

How to Sign "Fornication"
To sign "fornication," form both hands into "V" handshapes with your index and middle fingers extended and palms facing down. Bring your hands together in front of your body so that the extended fingers of both hands tap or cross against each other. The movement is typically a single, deliberate tap.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic. The "V" handshapes are often used in ASL as classifiers to represent human legs or bodies. Bringing the two "V" handshapes together visually represents two individuals coming together in a physical relationship.
Signing Tips
Keep your wrists relaxed but your "V" handshapes firm. Ensure your palms are facing down and slightly inward so that the fingers cross naturally when you bring your hands together.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using "U" handshapes (where the index and middle fingers are kept together) instead of "V" handshapes (where they are spread apart). Additionally, be careful not to tap the hands repeatedly, as a single, firm tap is standard.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Fornication" in a Sentence
1

The pastor preached about the dangers of fornication.

Sign "pastor," "preach," and "danger," then use the "V" handshapes tapping together to represent "fornication."

2

Fornication is often discussed in health class.

Sign "health," "class," and "discuss," then use the tapping "V" handshapes to establish the topic.

3

They read a book about the history of fornication.

Sign "read," "book," and "history," and finish with the "V" handshapes tapping together.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign the same as the sign for "sex"?

Yes, this sign is commonly used for "sex" or "intercourse" as well. In ASL, the same sign is often used for related concepts, and the specific English translation depends on the context of the sentence.

Should I tap my fingers more than once?

A single, deliberate tap is usually sufficient for this sign. Tapping multiple times might make the sign look less formal or change the nuance slightly.

Can I use this sign in a formal setting?

Yes, this sign is generally accepted in formal, medical, or educational settings when discussing topics related to intercourse or fornication.

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