ADVERTISEMENT

A good sign should be eye-catching, easy to understand, and informative. But this post is about a different kind of sign.

You see, some signs are so weirdly specific and hilarious that they make people, intentionally or not, wonder about the whys and whats. They make your imagination run errands and seem to tell us a whole lot more than they’re actually supposed to be saying. How is that possible, you ask? Pull your seat closer.

Below we wrapped up some of the most entertaining signs from all walks of life, spotted by passersby who suddenly had more questions than they had answers. Upvote your favorite ones as you scroll down below and be sure to check out more funny signs that very likely have stories behind them in our previous feature.

#1

The Sign Is The Story

The Sign Is The Story

Imfloridaman Report

RELATED:
    #3

    Tent Poles

    Tent Poles

    create_content Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Potty pagan panda
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wonder how many times the tent came crashing down on a disappointed father hmm?

    View more commentsArrow down menu

    “Signs that cause confusion often result from poor design choices or messaging that is too complex or open to interpretation,” Laura Vanagaite, an international freelance graphic designer who specializes in branding and social media content creation, told Bored Panda in an interview via email.

    As an example, she added, these are signs with ambiguous or conflicting messages that can create confusion for those who see them.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    Moreover, confusion may also arise not only from the sign itself but rather from its placement. “Signs that are poorly placed or not visible can fail to communicate their message effectively,” Laura said.

    This is because the placement and the context of a sign can have a significant impact on its meaning, Laura argues. “For example, a stop sign placed at an intersection can convey a clear message of traffic control, but the same sign placed in a parking lot may not have the same intended meaning.”

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #9

    Saw This In A Restroom Today And Thought That It Belonged Here

    Saw This In A Restroom Today And Thought That It Belonged Here

    TheSouthCarolinians Report

    “Similarly,” Laura continued, “a sign with a bold font and bright colors placed on a city street may communicate urgency or danger, while the same sign in a more relaxed setting may not have the same effect.”

    Essentially, the context in which a sign is placed can create associations with the surrounding environment and influence how people perceive it. “Therefore, it is crucial to consider the placement and context of a sign to effectively communicate its message,” Laura told us.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #10

    I’m About To Spray My New Kitchen Cabinets

    I’m About To Spray My New Kitchen Cabinets

    chainsawgeoff Report

    #12

    Interesting

    Interesting

    ForestFletcher Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Paul C.
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I told my bloody Satnav I was happy to use the Toll paying bit of the M6 in England. 3/4 of the way along, it took me off the Motorway for half a mile then back on through the Toll Booth, meaning I had to pay twice! My own fault I know, it tells you don't just follow the instructions without thought.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu

    The sign may also be confusing if it’s put at the wrong time and at the wrong place. “A sign that is not relevant to its location or its audience can be ineffective or even counterproductive,” Laura warns. “For example, a sign advertising winter clothing during the summer months or in a location where it seldom gets cold may not resonate with its audience.”

    #13

    Found In My High School. I Would Not Like To Know What Necessitated This

    Found In My High School. I Would Not Like To Know What Necessitated This

    Vantablack_Lotus Report

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #14

    How Many Times I Wonder?

    How Many Times I Wonder?

    skijeng Report

    #15

    Posted Inside The Lyft I Am Riding In. It Has Never Crossed My Mind That This Could Be A Bad Question, So I Appreciate The Heads Up!

    Posted Inside The Lyft I Am Riding In. It Has Never Crossed My Mind That This Could Be A Bad Question, So I Appreciate The Heads Up!

    poosie_galoar Report

    “Similarly, a sign promoting a product or service that is not available in a particular location can create confusion and frustration for those who see it. It's important to consider the appropriateness of a sign's placement and messaging to ensure that it is effective and useful to its intended audience,” Laura explained.

    When creating a sign, Laura argues, it's crucial to consider the user experience. “As a sign designer, you need to take into account the needs and expectations of the intended audience.”

    #16

    I Work In An Industry Where Rude Customers Are A Constant. Today We Posted This Sign. The Team Loves It

    I Work In An Industry Where Rude Customers Are A Constant. Today We Posted This Sign. The Team Loves It

    TheFastbat Report

    #18

    1. I Have No Idea Where This Is, And 2. I Want To Be There Immediately

    1. I Have No Idea Where This Is, And 2. I Want To Be There Immediately

    reddit.com Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Serial pacifist
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The raccoon chooses its special person. Dave, he just doesn't like you, stop coercing him.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT

    According to a graphic designer, a well-designed sign should possess these key features: “have clear and concise messaging, be visually appealing and easy to read, and be placed in a location where it can be easily seen and understood.”

    “Additionally, it should consider the audience's needs and expectations to effectively communicate its message,” Laura concluded.

    #19

    My Gym Is Trying To Catch A Phantom Pisser

    My Gym Is Trying To Catch A Phantom Pisser

    4_tha_ents Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Trillian
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Better yet, block the door from the outside and let him steam in his own pee

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #23

    Don’t Touch The Mug

    Don’t Touch The Mug

    reddit.com Report

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #25

    Who Has Pet Bears

    Who Has Pet Bears

    IAmTheBiggestCheese Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Will Cable
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Someone asked if they could bring a 'Pooh Bear'....sadly reception had the wrong idea and the mess took ages to clear up.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #27

    Uhhhh

    Uhhhh

    panaxity Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Alexia
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I unintentionally scared security people at the airport. I had my laptop charger and a candy box (which I had left in the backpack when I got through security). The guy watching the screen froze, his face turned white and he moved back and forth the band with my backpack. Then he turned to me and asked me what I had in the backpack. "Nothing important, some candies, my laptop charger, an agenda..." He explained me that it looked like an explosive device. It was nice to see his face regaining the normal colors :)

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #29

    I’m Pretty Sure This Is Like A Fish Tank Or Smth… 💀 I Just Don’t Understand Why A Sign Would Be Needed, Have Ppl Been Stirring This Fish Tank For Fun?

    I’m Pretty Sure This Is Like A Fish Tank Or Smth… 💀 I Just Don’t Understand Why A Sign Would Be Needed, Have Ppl Been Stirring This Fish Tank For Fun?

    chocobabie_ Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Elizabeth Tayler
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm sorry but why would you have him in a public place? Someone take the poor thing home to a quieter environment.

    Kerry Schultz
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    i think it might mean disturbing the fish by tapping the glass and stuff. don't get him worked up and upset.as opposed to literally stirring the fish tank

    Bunny
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This, right here, is why I hate people. Get your handicapped a$$ eaten by an alligator - byeeee. But don't mess with the animals/birds/fishes!

    Izzy Curer
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    'Pretty sure this is a fish tank'? What... what else did they think the glass box with the fish in it was?

    I'm done
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Look how big that bruise is already! jk but seriously don't

    Mandy Delaforce (PC Girl)
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    These are the type of tanks you see in restaurants. Nothing but water and some gravel. They are awful and so cruel.

    April Pickett
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    People these days do the most thoughtless things. Doesn't anyone think for a moment before taking action?

    A P
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    To stir up also means to make excited. I'm thinking this is more about tapping on the glass and such rather than stick g your hand in and swirling it around

    Jane Cortez
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    :( I would like to douse whomever stirs that poor fish’s water in honey and unleash a ‘stored’ hive of hornets on them….

    Daryl McIntire
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Maybe free it? Let it live out it's best life. Who needs fish that live within a small tank?

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #30

    There's A Story Behind Every Sign Like This

    There's A Story Behind Every Sign Like This

    DBTheNerd Report

    Continue reading with Bored Panda Premium
    Unlimited content
    Ad-free browsing
    Dark mode
    #31

    A Great Sign I Found At Auckland Zoo

    A Great Sign I Found At Auckland Zoo

    Rotten_Eel Report

    #32

    When They Park Like S**t

    When They Park Like S**t

    Imfloridaman Report

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #34

    Something Funny I Saw Tonight Near My House

    Something Funny I Saw Tonight Near My House

    Detectivebonghits42 Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    #38

    Funny, But I Can't Vouch For Its Authenticity

    Funny, But I Can't Vouch For Its Authenticity

    reddit.com Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But I thought committing belligerent and embarrassing actions was the whole point of putting Fox News on the air.

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    #41

    This Ride Only Stops In An Emergency

    This Ride Only Stops In An Emergency

    reddit.com Report

    #42

    What Made Them Have To Put This Sign Up?

    What Made Them Have To Put This Sign Up?

    someone_else_900 Report

    #47

    Blessed

    Blessed

    eduleiria Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    mhoulden
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I know Cornholme. It's a tiny place in West Yorkshire on the road between Todmorden and Burnley. Hebden Bridge is a bit down the road from Tod and is a major centre for alternative lifestyles and same sex relationships. Historically Burnley was home to the Pendle Witches. I think Cornholme sees itself as a bit of an enclave.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #50

    Going To Start Parking Here Every Day

    Going To Start Parking Here Every Day

    ChrisMMatthews Report

    #53

    Use Condoms And No Loud Moaning After 9pm

    Use Condoms And No Loud Moaning After 9pm

    TCmotown Report

    #54

    Oh God

    Oh God

    lildoggi76 Report

    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #56

    What The Hell Happened Here

    What The Hell Happened Here

    Dr_Lupe Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Zia Barrett
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This was inspired by an actual incident, here: https://eu.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/nation-world/2016/08/22/weird-florida-throwback-psychedelic-mushrooms/7210201007/

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #57

    Sounds Like A Fun Campus

    Sounds Like A Fun Campus

    reddit.com Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    RAM31280
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I didn't even think to do that before reading this sign, I would out of spite

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #59

    From Someone At My University

    From Someone At My University

    crap_on_a_crayfish Report

    #61

    Why Is "Meat Service" Quotes? It Makes It Worse

    Why Is "Meat Service" Quotes? It Makes It Worse

    keith2301 Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    oktopus
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And let's be honest, who amongst us has never rung the bell for "meat service"?

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #63

    Found At A Local Oddities Shop Called Dysfunctional Grace In Tampa

    Found At A Local Oddities Shop Called Dysfunctional Grace In Tampa

    R3dR0cketCar Report

    #65

    I Eat Pizza With The Box Closed, Actually

    I Eat Pizza With The Box Closed, Actually

    mattyunderscore_ Report

    #66

    Kids? What Kids?

    Kids? What Kids?

    Vitski Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    RedBadgerCan'tSwim
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I worked at a farm store and every ride on and zero turn mower came with these keychains.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #70

    Is The Enforcement To Prevent The Bridge From Sneaking Up Behind You?

    Is The Enforcement To Prevent The Bridge From Sneaking Up Behind You?

    ItinerantCoconut Report

    #72

    They're Not All Medical Heroes

    They're Not All Medical Heroes

    reddit.com Report

    #73

    Now Why Did This Sign Need Changing

    Now Why Did This Sign Need Changing

    collent582 Report

    #74

    I Work With A Bunch Of Savages, Apparently

    I Work With A Bunch Of Savages, Apparently

    brewerjy Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Ephemeral Mochi
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I've seen bits of instant ramen noodles in a bathroom sink at my school. 🤦🏻‍♀

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #76

    Any Idea What This Bathroom Sign Is Trying To Say?

    Any Idea What This Bathroom Sign Is Trying To Say?

    spicymoo Report

    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #77

    I Feel Bad For The Soul That Made This Sign Necessary

    I Feel Bad For The Soul That Made This Sign Necessary

    ednatheafricanviolet Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Purple Sprinkles
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is common, people hang clothes from the sprinkler and break it. I've seen this sign a lot.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #78

    From A Friend Of Mine. He Saw This At One Of Our Local Dollar Generals

    From A Friend Of Mine. He Saw This At One Of Our Local Dollar Generals

    Bearman5000 Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Zia Barrett
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Anti-diarrhoea medicine is a high theft item, something about the active ingredients and drug addiction that I...have clearly partially forgotten =.= It gets nicked a lot.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #80

    A Sign With A Story I Cannot Explain

    A Sign With A Story I Cannot Explain

    reddit.com Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Brenda
    Community Member
    1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Hobbyists sometimes substitute an 0 (#) for O (letter). Numbers are usually cheaper

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #84

    I Want To Know What Caused This

    I Want To Know What Caused This

    Joe-Lollo Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Barbara Kelly
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is probably a truck carrying dead animals , animal rendering products, or spoiled food.

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #85

    As Opposed To What?

    As Opposed To What?

    N0_Th4nk5 Report

    #86

    I’ve Never Seen A Hotel Pool Sign So Blunt Before

    I’ve Never Seen A Hotel Pool Sign So Blunt Before

    TurtlesTurnMeOn Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    oktopus
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    But what if you couldn't get medication because it was behind the counter? (See #78).

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #87

    Every Piece Of Clothing At A Baby Store. Well Damn

    Every Piece Of Clothing At A Baby Store. Well Damn

    Mr_Prolapsed_Anus Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Toni Kay
    Community Member
    1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This was very common on kids pjs when my kids were younger, always looked exactly the same. I would assume they are still in use now.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #88

    Volleyball At 4pm?? Get Outta Here!

    Volleyball At 4pm?? Get Outta Here!

    GoodToMyself Report

    #89

    Of All The Things To Ban, Why Toothpicks?

    Of All The Things To Ban, Why Toothpicks?

    theKFP Report

    #90

    Please

    Please

    sansyboi469 Report

    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda