What does “PIECE OF PISS” mean?
The phrase "piece of piss" means that something is extremely easy or straightforward. When someone describes a task or situation as "piece of piss", they are emphasizing how effortless it is to complete or understand. It can be compared to saying 'It's a breeze' or 'It's a walk in the park.'
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Can you build this LEGO man for me? Yeah, it’s a piece of piss.
Example
I thought the exam would be difficult, but it turned out to be a piece of piss.
Example
Cooking this recipe is a piece of piss, even for beginners.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing a simple task or activity
Can you build this LEGO man for me? Yeah, it’s a piece of piss.
Cooking this recipe is a piece of piss, even for beginners.
- 2Expressing surprise at the ease of something
I thought the exam would be difficult, but it turned out to be a piece of piss.
Fixing my car was a piece of piss, I didn't even need help.
- 3Comparing the difficulty of tasks
Compared to my previous job, this one is a piece of piss.
Running a marathon was tough, but climbing Mount Everest is a whole different level of difficulty. It's not a piece of piss.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "piece of piss" originated in the United Kingdom and is commonly used in British English. It is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century and has since spread to other English-speaking regions, including New Zealand.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "piece of piss" is typically used within a sentence, it can also be used on its own to convey the idea that something is easy. For example, if someone asks if a task is difficult, you can simply respond with "Piece of piss!" to indicate that it is easy.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "piece of piss" is slightly vulgar, but it is not considered highly offensive. It is a slang term used to describe something as easy or straightforward.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "piece of piss" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in the United Kingdom and New Zealand. It is more likely to be used by younger generations and those familiar with slang and informal language.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase originated in the United Kingdom, it is also used in other English-speaking regions, including New Zealand. It is not specific to a particular accent or region within those countries.