How to Sign "Piss"
To sign 'piss' (or 'pee'), form a 'P' handshape with your dominant hand. Bring your hand up to your face and tap the tip of your middle finger against your nose twice. Your palm should be facing sideways.
Examples Using "Piss" in a Sentence
1
I need to go piss.
Sign 'I', 'NEED', 'GO', and then tap the 'P' handshape on your nose for 'PISS'.
2
The dog pissed on the floor.
Sign 'DOG', then 'PISS', followed by pointing to or signing 'FLOOR'.
3
Where can I piss?
Sign 'PISS', then use the sign for 'WHERE' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.
How to Sign "Piss"
To sign 'piss' (or 'pee'), form a 'P' handshape with your dominant hand. Bring your hand up to your face and tap the tip of your middle finger against your nose twice. Your palm should be facing sideways.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is an initialized sign, using the ASL letter 'P' for 'piss' or 'pee'. It is placed at the nose, a location sometimes associated with smells or bodily functions.
Signing Tips
Keep the tapping motion light and localized to the tip of your nose. Ensure your 'P' handshape is clearly formed so it isn't confused with an index finger.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using an 'X' handshape or a simple index finger, which can change the meaning to signs like 'bug' or 'boring'. Make sure your thumb is resting on your middle finger to form a proper 'P'.
Regional Variations
While the 'P' on the nose is widely understood for the specific act, many signers prefer using the sign for 'toilet' (shaking a 'T' handshape) or 'bathroom' in polite or formal company.
Examples Using "Piss" in a Sentence
1I need to go piss.
Sign 'I', 'NEED', 'GO', and then tap the 'P' handshape on your nose for 'PISS'.
2The dog pissed on the floor.
Sign 'DOG', then 'PISS', followed by pointing to or signing 'FLOOR'.
3Where can I piss?
Sign 'PISS', then use the sign for 'WHERE' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign considered rude or inappropriate?
It is a casual sign, much like the English words 'pee' or 'piss'. While not inherently profane, it is better to use the sign for 'bathroom' or 'toilet' in formal or polite settings.
What is the difference between this sign and 'bathroom'?
The sign for 'bathroom' or 'toilet' uses a 'T' handshape shaken side to side and refers to the facility itself. The 'P' on the nose specifically refers to the action of urinating.
Can I use this sign for the medical term 'urine'?
Yes, this sign is commonly used to mean 'urine', 'pee', or 'piss' in both casual and medical contexts when referring to the bodily fluid.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!