How to Sign "Pig"
To sign 'pig', clench the hand into a fist. Bring it under the chin. Relax the fist so the fingers are outstretched, then bring the hand back into a fist.
Examples Using "Pig" in a Sentence
1
The pig is eating.
Sign 'pig' by opening and closing your fist under your chin, then sign 'eat' by bringing a squished 'O' handshape to your mouth.
2
I saw a pink pig at the farm.
Sign 'farm', then 'pink' by pulling a 'P' handshape down your chin, followed by the sign for 'pig' right under the chin.
3
Pigs are very smart animals.
Sign 'pig' using the opening and closing fist motion under your chin, then sign 'smart' by touching your forehead with your middle finger and flicking it outward.
How to Sign "Pig"
To sign 'pig', clench the hand into a fist. Bring it under the chin. Relax the fist so the fingers are outstretched, then bring the hand back into a fist.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'pig' is visually motivated by the eating and foraging habits of pigs. The opening and closing of the hand under the chin mimics the action of a pig's snout rooting around in the dirt, or slop dripping from its chin.
Signing Tips
Keep the back of your hand facing outward and your knuckles resting lightly just beneath your chin. Make sure the opening and closing motion of your fingers is distinct and fluid. You do not need to slap your chin; a gentle brushing or hovering motion right underneath is perfect.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is placing the hand on the front of the chin or over the mouth instead of underneath the chin. Another frequent error is only wiggling the fingers instead of fully opening the fist and clenching it back together.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Pig" in a Sentence
1The pig is eating.
Sign 'pig' by opening and closing your fist under your chin, then sign 'eat' by bringing a squished 'O' handshape to your mouth.
2I saw a pink pig at the farm.
Sign 'farm', then 'pink' by pulling a 'P' handshape down your chin, followed by the sign for 'pig' right under the chin.
3Pigs are very smart animals.
Sign 'pig' using the opening and closing fist motion under your chin, then sign 'smart' by touching your forehead with your middle finger and flicking it outward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my hand need to touch my chin?
Yes, the top of your hand or knuckles should lightly touch or rest just underneath your chin as you perform the opening and closing motion.
How many times should I open and close my fist?
Typically, you open and close the fist twice in a quick, fluid motion. Doing it just once might look incomplete, while doing it too many times is unnecessary.
Is this sign related to the sign for 'dirty'?
Yes, they share a similar location under the chin, which is often used in ASL for concepts related to messiness. However, 'dirty' uses a wiggling fingers motion, while 'pig' requires fully opening and closing the fist.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!