What does “TAKING THE PISS” mean?
The slang phrase "TAKING THE PISS" means 'Used when someone is being unreasonable or joking around.' When someone says that another person is "TAKING THE PISS", they are implying that the person is behaving in a way that is absurd, unreasonable, or not to be taken seriously. It can also be used to describe someone who is joking or teasing in a light-hearted manner.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Can you work for a few more hours? You’re taking the piss mate.
Example
He said he could fix my car in an hour, but it's been three hours already. He's really taking the piss.
Example
I asked for a small favor and she asked me to do her entire project. She's definitely taking the piss.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Expressing someone's unreasonable behavior
Can you work for a few more hours? You’re taking the piss mate.
He said he could fix my car in an hour, but it's been three hours already. He's really taking the piss.
- 2Describing someone's excessive demands or requests
I asked for a small favor and she asked me to do her entire project. She's definitely taking the piss.
They expect us to work overtime every day without any extra pay. They're taking the piss.
- 3Reacting to someone's sarcastic or mocking behavior
He made fun of my outfit in front of everyone. He's just taking the piss.
She keeps teasing me about my mistakes. She's always taking the piss.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "taking the piss" originated in British English and is commonly used in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. It is believed to have originated from the expression 'taking the piss out of someone,' which means to mock or ridicule someone.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "taking the piss" is typically used within a sentence to convey someone's unreasonable behavior or joking around. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "taking the piss" is considered vulgar and offensive. It is not appropriate for formal or polite conversations.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "taking the piss" is commonly used among friends or in casual conversations. It is more prevalent among younger generations and those familiar with British English and its slang.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "taking the piss" is primarily used in British English and is commonly heard in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. It may not be as widely understood or used in other English-speaking regions.
