Here's How Naughty Words Look In Sign Language

Sign language words and the communication form itself has been mentioned since before our era in the fifth century B.C., and though it has old roots the common usage of it in Western countries dates only to the 17th century. Now, as with any other language, the speaker doesn't just need to learn to sign language basic words, but also words to express grieve disappointment, dissatisfaction, and anger. Yes, we're talking about swearing. In case you weren't aware, deaf people use swearing just as much as the rest of us - they're just able to do it a little more discreetly. YouTube channel Cut has helped us all join in on the fun by posting a video in which 7 deaf people show how to say all of your favorite curse words in American sign language, and it's so much more fun than just flipping the bird.

Some of the swear words involve pretty straight-forward hand charades, and probably shouldn't be acted out in public places. Other cussing examples, however, are more subtle and could be a mistake for a variety of meanings. Finally, some involve manually spelling out the word using sign language alphabet signs, encoding the bad words completely to the untrained eye. It's basically the most useful piece of education you're likely to get today (unless you feel like checking out more Cut content).

Watch the video of bad words in sign language below. Don't worry - we already know you're going to try them all in front of your computer screen. Just make sure any deaf family members have left the room first.