How to Sign "Have Sex"

To sign "have sex", you will combine the signs for "have" and "sex". First, form bent "B" handshapes with both hands and tap your fingertips against your chest to sign "have". Next, form an "X" handshape with your dominant hand and tap the side of your upper cheek to sign "sex".

Examples Using "Have Sex" in a Sentence

1

They are ready to have sex.

Sign "they", "ready", and then the two-part sign for "have sex" shown in the video.

2

We talked about having sex.

Sign "we", "discuss", and then "have sex", making sure to clearly form the "X" handshape on your cheek.

3

Is it safe to have sex?

Sign "safe", then "have sex", while raising your eyebrows and leaning forward to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Have Sex"
To sign "have sex", you will combine the signs for "have" and "sex". First, form bent "B" handshapes with both hands and tap your fingertips against your chest to sign "have". Next, form an "X" handshape with your dominant hand and tap the side of your upper cheek to sign "sex".
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This phrase is a literal translation combining two distinct ASL signs. "Have" brings the hands toward the body to indicate possession or holding, while "sex" uses the "X" handshape near the cheek, a standard location for signs related to identity and gender.
Signing Tips
Focus on the crisp transition between the two signs. Bring both hands to your chest for "have", then smoothly drop your non-dominant hand while your dominant hand forms the "X" handshape and moves to your cheek for "sex".
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes blend the handshapes together, resulting in an unclear sign. Make sure to fully form the bent "B" handshapes for "have" before switching to the "X" handshape for "sex".
Regional Variations
While this video demonstrates the literal combination of "have" and "sex", it is very common in ASL to use the sign for "intercourse" (tapping two "V" handshapes together) to express the action of having sex.
Examples Using "Have Sex" in a Sentence
1

They are ready to have sex.

Sign "they", "ready", and then the two-part sign for "have sex" shown in the video.

2

We talked about having sex.

Sign "we", "discuss", and then "have sex", making sure to clearly form the "X" handshape on your cheek.

3

Is it safe to have sex?

Sign "safe", then "have sex", while raising your eyebrows and leaning forward to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the only way to sign 'have sex'?

No, this is a literal translation. Many fluent signers prefer using the sign for "intercourse", which involves tapping two "V" handshapes together, to describe the physical act.

Do I need to use both hands for the first part?

Yes, the sign for "have" is a two-handed sign. You should use both hands on your chest before dropping your non-dominant hand for the second part.

Where exactly should the 'X' handshape touch my face?

The "X" handshape should tap the side of your upper cheek, near your cheekbone. Keep the movement small and controlled.

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