Interpretation: A geek or nerd. In American English, you'd probably hear a "wow" instead.In use: "Blimey, it's late! 11. 9. he British slang term used to describe avoiding the job or duties that you are meant to be completing. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Otherwise known as a bachelors or Bucks party. Blinding. "A bacon sandwich and a builder's tea. Im not being funny, but that meal was minging!. Used in the same way Americans use the term dude. Some people consider"bloody" offensive (the origins of the word are widely disputed, so we can't be sure why) and it was considered a profanity until the mid-20th century. 53. Loo acommon term used to describe going to the toilet or bathroom, Im just going to the loo. To "gallivant" means to roam, or to set off on an expedition, with the sole intention of having some light-hearted fun. ", "Don't trust him he's a smarmy geezer. 64. Bloke. Its brass monkeys out there!, 89. "Mint" might be used when referring to something of the highest calibre. You must be chuffed.". For example, 'Cheers for getting me that drink, Steve'. Ive got no time for your pork pies. 10. For example if you are telling someone how to make that fabulous banoffee pie you just served them, you would tell them to boil the condensed milk for three hours, spread it onto a basic cheesecake base, slice bananas on top, add some whipped double cream, another layer of banana and Bob's your uncle! When they were working on the factory floor, employees had to wear hard clogs to protect their feet. More likely, a person who has a very strong interest, perhaps a bit obsessive, in niche subjects.In use: "Ugh, mum, I don't want to take Ralph to the pub, he's such an anorak. If you've "wangled" something, you've accomplished or attained something through cunning means. The termcomes from the Scottish slang word "ming," meaning faeces. Fit while meaning something that is very healthy, fit can also mean someone who is very physically attractive. The word could be a variation of "toddle" like a young child's first steps. The phrase was first documented in the BBC's "Lenny Henry Christmas Special" in 1987. 3. Minging aslightly derogative term used to describe something that is either disgusting or gross. Oh put a sock in it will you!, 73. 86. Jammy avery commonBritish slangterm for someone who is always very lucky and fortunate, often more than should be normal. While most British people think "food" is something you eat, it's also street slang for drugs. phrase often used in the South and London regions that describes a big party, packed with drinking and dancing. refers to a hearty plate of food that is very tasty. Interpretation: Cockney Slang relating to Newton Heath, an area of Manchester, England, which translates to "teeth. For more than 40 years, Grand European Travel has been providing a wonderfully simple, and genuinely personal, way to travel. "Tinkle" refers to a phone's ring, while "blower" is slang or telephone and refers to the device that predated phones on Naval ships. 30+ Must-Know British Slang Words and Phrases Anorak Interpretation: A geek or nerd. his is a phrase that is used when you want someone to take a look at something closely. 60 British phrases that will confuse anybody who didn't grow up in the UK. Around the same time, the word "cod" was a little-known slang term for a . Hank Marvin is a British musician from the 1960s and 1970s, and is a pretty obscure reference nowadays. Cockney Slang uses language in one of the most interesting ways, by rhyming with what you mean but substituting different (and dissimilar) words. (As in, this article is smashing.). ", Interpretation:A common Scottish phrase that means "pretty" or "beautiful" normally in reference to a woman or lass. Cockney rhyming slang for "knackered," if you're "cream crackered" then you're incredibly tired. 97. A disorganised mess or chaotic environment might be described as a "shambles. Andes, NY A quaint storybook village in the Catskill Mountains set among lots of farms and forests. 65. Plastered another popular phrase used to describe someone who was very intoxicated with alcohol. ", "Miffed" possibly derives from the German "muffen," meaning "to sulk. 38. Knackered. Jolly Good . I dont fancy going to work today, I might skive off. Dont be daft!, 11. This is just one of many British slang words to describe inebriation; there's also getting "sloshed," "rat-arsed," "pissed," "shit-faced," and more. This phrase could be a reference to coffee beans, although these claims have been disputed. The art of British slang. So, we've come up with a list of British slang to help you get by, blend in and banter like a true Londoner while travelling. Whats more, being able to understand these nuances will ensure you can converse freely, recognise cultural references and avoid any embarrassing mishaps! Ahhh, English. Im going to the bog, be back in a minute. British term of endearment used when a friend or loved one is being a little rude or disrespectful but in a funny way. Minted is a British term typically used to describe someone who is wealthy and has a large amount of money, Theyre minted. "Faff" comes from the 17th century word "faffle," which means to flap about in the wind. "Pinch punch, first of the month. Men's urinals were free of charge. The team at the Business Insider UK office have compiled a list of the best British slang and idioms that define the weird and wonderful British dialect we grew up with. Available now from major retailers in prints and eBook form. When something's questionable for suspicious, we call it dodgy. 62. 50. I got this jacket for peanuts. Youre really taking the biscuit now. Its no secret that the English language is becoming increasingly widespread. Builders tea the British love their tea, and this is a term used to describe a tea that features a lot of milk and is typically quite weak. Bits and bobsa term used to describe an assortment or collection of different items that do not have any real connection to each other. Hello mate, how are you?. 98. The town boasts a family owned gas station, a darling hotel, and lots of cute vintage shops and art galleries. Stop talking waffle and get to the point. The Best Amazon Presidents' Day Deals of 2023. Oh, the Brits. his is a phrase used to describe something that is very tasty and addictive. Something that is "tickety-boo" is satisfactory and in good order. Another great way of picking up certain colloquialisms and slang phrases is to listen to both popular and local radio shows. Typically used in London, it has expanded to other regions of the country. I haggled them down from the asking price. Often used when referring to a cup of tea. I dont fancy going to work today, I might skive off. omething that is very lucky or caused by complete chance. Coming in a variety of flavours, this is the British equivalent of a packet of potato chips. Someone told me that cast members used it in Love, Actually, and that's when they fell in love with it. "The Nick" can refer to prison, while "to nick" also means to steal. Im a bit cheesed off they never called me on my birthday. "Did you see Scott last night? This phrase is used to describe a process which seems more difficult than it actually is. used to describe something or someone that is suspicious or questionable. We never send Spam. That was bonkers!. E nglish is the de facto national language of Britain, but that doesn't mean you'll take to the vernacular like a duck to water. Calling "bagsy" is the equivalent of calling "shotgun" or "dibs" when something, like the front seat of the car, is offered up to a group. Twat This is one of the harsher terms on the list, perhaps because of its literal meaning: lady parts. Do you know these British insults, slangs and phrases? That was wicked!. Barea British term commonly used to describe a lot of something. 2. Yucky refers to a food or drink item that does not taste nice or has gone off. "The dreaded lurgy" originates from 1950s British TV show "The Goon Show," in which one character has to deal with a national epidemic of an unidentified illness. If someone's "caught the lurgy," they're suffering from cold or flu-like symptoms. "Pop" has evolved from "cock," and when someone "cocked" their clogs, the toes of their clogs pointed up in the air as they lay down dead. Our Travel Specialists make planning your trip fun and hassle free, Top 10 advantages of taking a guided tour, As you plan your trip read our unedited guest reviews. The "boot" is the compartment at the back of the car known as the "trunk" in American English. 3. American English Slang for Actions. To "splash out" means spending significant amounts of money on a particular item or event. Someone that lacks common sense might be described as "a few sandwiches short of a picnic.". word used to describe something that was truly exceptional. word that every Brit knows! You don't want to be described as "dim," "a mug," or "a few sandwiches short of a picnic." his is a phrase typically used in the south of the country and refers to a sandwich. Stop faffing around and get on with it. "Our Christmas dinner had everything from sprouts to Yorkshire puddings. 3. A slightly less pleasant way of saying this is taking the piss. However, there is no proof for this theory. In "over-egging the pudding" analogy, someone is over-exciting, or over-mixing, the batter too much before it bakes resulting in a tough or dense cake. ", "I'm going to make us spaghetti carbonara for dinner. Slang is used in informal spoken English only . 90. That was bonkers!. Just roll with it. ", Someone on a spree of excessive drinking and mischief is "on a bender. ", "Sod's law" is often used to explain bad luck or freakish acts of misfortune. Learning English can be incredibly tough, and understanding British slang is even tougher, but taking your time and using these 100 phrases will soon see you conversing with native speakers like you have been living here for years! The idiom was first used to describe the thick, choking smogs that settled over London, caused by lots of people burning fossil fuels in a close vicinity,as early as 1200. Please call us for assistance at 1-877-622-9109. Discount is not combinable with any other discount or offer, including our GETAWAY Deals, Limited Time Offers, AARP member discount, Past Traveler discount or Multiple Trip discounts. his is a term commonly used to refer to having a short nap or snooze during the day. Biscuit aBritish slang term used to describe any cookie or cookie-like snack in the UK. 5. Hench - a tall lad with strong muscles. Do it that way, and Bobs your uncle!. as two meanings, either a muddy marsh or a phrase used to describe the toilet. Savings not valid on all itineraries and/or departure dates, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. 37. ", Something full to the brim, or rammed, could be described as "chockalock. In the 17th century, to "waff" went to yelp, and quickly evolved to mean to talk foolishly or indecisively. relatively polite way of telling someone to go away and stop bothering you. Banging acommon phrase that is used to describe something very good or of high quality. I feel really rough, so I cant come out. Splash out acommon British term used to describe spending more money than you should have to treat yourself or a loved one. phrase commonly used to describe having a friendly chat or gossip with close friends and family. From Stormzy and Adele to Dua Lipa and the Arctic Monkeys, they all use certain words and phrases that are distinctly British. Cuppa afriendly way of describing a cup of. 42. 18. 32. his is a slang word used to describe an argument or disagreement with a friend or family member. The people are the nicest in the world. 85. 69. ", If someone has done something highly irritating or surprisingin an exasperating fashion, you might say that they've "taken the biscuit.". Interpretation: If someone calls a person cheeky, they are implying that the person is being slightly rude or disrespectful, though in a charming or amusing way. Ditch: in uni, if you ditch class, you're on Santa's naughty list. The average Brit would just reply 'good, you?' even if they were in the middle of a pandemic and ready to take a long walk off a short cliff. After a long university day, being knackered, which is one of the most popular British English slang words and phrases, simply means being exhausted. Easy peasyis a commonly used term to describe something that was very easy to complete. The London Slang Dictionary Project ("written by teenagers for their peers and for their teachers") includes:. "How was the hostel?" Other conditions may apply. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. Recently I conducted an activity at my school to spread a bit of information about common British slang. Things have gone a bit pear-shaped!, phrase commonly used to describe something that was very easy to complete. Innit acommon abbreviation for Isnt it. n interchangeable British term used to describe either a shopping cart or someone who is saying something silly, Youre off your trolley if you think thats correct!. 95. Synonyms include: wally, berk, prat, numpty, knob-head, nincompoop and tit. 6. you were legless last night!. For example, Im Hank Marvin! To sell or promote. This is more commonly known in the US as "Murphy's law. common British slang term used to describe bartering someone down or negotiating a particular price. You played a blinder last night! or That was a blinding performance. Although the common perception around the world is that every British person speaks eloquently as if they are a part of the royal family, the truth is actually very different. Matethis is an interchangeable word that is a commonly used term for a friend or as a greeting to a male you are unacquainted with. That was naff. Other shows such as The Great British Bake Off are great in helping you to see how certain phrases are used in context. That was a complete shambles. 15. Below are just a few common British phrases that you might like to work into your daily vernacular, as they can pepper any conversation with a little extra something. ", Something unpleasant, unappetising, or highly unattractive might be described as "minging.". Give us a bell when you finish work. 17. "Press down the clutch, put it into gear, then slowly ease off the clutch again. 52. A "fag end" is also the ratty bits towards the ends of a reel of fabric, which are the worst and the cheapest bits of the reel. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. One of the most effective ways to learn British slang and to pick up those phrases and terms to make you sound like a modern British person is to spend time with English speakers. less common term nowadays, but a Wally is someone who is a little silly or has said something stupid. GET is owned by The Travel Corporation, a fourth-generation family business driven by the pursuit or excellence and an unrelenting commitment to customer care. If the radio presenters do not help you, then listening to some of the biggest British musicians certainly can. Throwing yourself in at the deep end and heading to the pub with some native speakers will soon seeing you understand exactly what phrases and terms to use in certain situations. "Chinese whispers" are rumours that have been circulated and watered down until they only vaguely resemble the truth. Historically, "gallant" described someone brave or valiant, so "gallivanting" is a carefree and confident act. Theres something uncanny about hearing a phrase, word, or object youre familiar with being used or referred to in a new way. sarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk. The second highest definition in Urban Dictionary is the London one: Nowt aphrase used in the north of the country that is typically used as a replacement for the term nothing. Unrelatedly, "Clangers" was also a children's TV show from the 1970s about pink mouse-like creatures that lived on the moon. A "knacker" was the person that slaughtered worn-out horses in the 19th and 20th centuries for their meat, hoofs, and hide. It's Sod's law. Splash out and treat yourself, you only live once!. Crash - To fall asleep quickly. 48. Similar use to the term Easy Peasy. A cockney rhyming phrase that is typically used to describe being worn out and extremely tired mentally and physically. I can't be fucked with her.". 45. 5. Kip this is a term commonly used to refer to having a short nap or snooze during the day. colloquial term that is a shortened version of football (soccer). discount toward your first tour (operated by Trafalgar or Insight Vacations) when you sign up for GET emails; valid for each full-paying adult who signs up with a unique email address. ", "I was absolutely car-parked last night. Bloke "Bloke" would be the American English equivalent of "dude." It means a "man." 2. Every language has a few phrases that don't always translate well and the British English has some absolute corkers. Gutted - is a British term you use to describe feeling devastated or upset. (Meanings) Consistently being on the right side of good fortune. I feel really rough, so I cant come out. 12. Bonkers Not necessarily intended in a bad way, "bonkers" means "mad" or "crazy." 4. The book features over 1,000 British Slang words including extra sections on Australian and Kiwi Slang, Cockney Slang and London slang. If you're really delighted about something you can even be chuffed to bits. ", This quintessentially British idiom derives from the Dutch "pap" and "kak," which translate as "soft" and "dung.". American English is certainly rich in a wide variety of slang words and phrases, both quite old, such as those from the Colonial Times and very new, only recently added to the dictionary. It's unclear why Britsappear to favour analogue time-telling while Americans go for the digital format. 1. 1. As an American living in UK, I heard it most often to express disappointment, similar to how we use "damn". Im off for a kip. Afternoon Tea - A Formal meal where one sits down with cucumber sandwiches, pastries, and fine tea. This widely used British slang "bloke" is another word for "man" and is the American equivalent of "guy" or "dude". So, when youve completely tired out or just cant go on, youre knackered!In use: "Sorry I'm late, Tom and I flew in last night, and I'm knackered! ", Interpretation: A way of expressing surprise, amazement, or even wonder. A general term of abuse (in use since 1960s but may have been popularised by the BBC comedy series Only Fools and Horses. Don't say soccer to a British person. common phrase that is used to describe something very good or of high quality. Eg. Footy acolloquial term that is a shortened version of football (soccer). Not your cup of teaclassic term used to describe something that does not take your fancy or is not something that brings you enjoyment. A Few Spanners Short Meaning: To be dumb or not fully there. "Mortal" describes someone highly intoxicated or drunk in a sloppy manner. common phrase used to describe wanting someone to telephone you. Libes is a contraction and solely British university slang verb of "a library". negative term used to describe someone who is incredibly foolish or lacking in intelligence. "Over-egging the pudding" means embellishing or over-doing something to the extent that it's detrimental to the finished product. trendy, stylish, fashionable among young people honky a derogatory term in black American slang for a white person hood (1) a neighbourhood, especially in a poor, urban area hoops the game of basketball pimp (2) | pimp out to customize or renovate something; to make something flashier or more appealing rap (2) to recite lyrics over a rhythmic beat phrase used in the north of the country that is typically used as a replacement for the term nothing. The phrase is reportedly old slang from the Royal Air Forceand was used to described awry expeditions and flights. Dodgy. a British term commonly used to describe a lot of something. Historically, "fags" were the cheaper cigarettes made of lower grade tobacco, however, the slang has spread to encompass all cigarettes. The word "shirt" is derived from the Norse for "short," hence short-tempered. New words and phrases are continuously being added and used. Congratulations! With the right attention, youll soon be speaking with a modern British accent! In use: "Sorry, I won't make it to the pub tonight, I'm a bit skint this week. "Would you take a butchers at this broken bike for me? Lend me a quid mate. If you're going to have a roast, have the full Monty! The very British equivalent to "Hey presto!" 24. common term used to describe going to the toilet or bathroom, Im just going to the loo. A brolly is a slang term for an umbrella, something that is needed very regularly in the UK. Just your bog-standard dorm, really.". Fixin' to. is a shop that is typically opened late into the night and serves essential groceries and alcohol. his is the name given to the boys-only night out for a groom to be. You'll notice a lot of abbreviations here, which is all part of the fun of learning how to speak Texas slang. 63. Although the origins of this phrase are largely unknown, a gaff in the 18th-century was a music hall or theatre, and so it's believed to derive from this. multi-use term that can either describe your household waste or something that was very bad or below expectations. "Wind your neck in and stop being so nosy! While lad is used for boys and younger men.In use: "I'm heading to the pub with the blokes. Lacking in energy; usually after a long period of exertion. Happy birthday to George! This guide to British sayings, funny British phrases, dirty expressions, slang words, and more will not only help you understand what the people of England, Wales, and . I haggled them down from the asking price. Plus, receive travel inspiration, news and latest promotions. This colloquialism might be said by someone that has the situation under control. It's a funky throwback to 1990s street slang and just fun to say. Peanuts aBritish term used to describe the cost of an item that is very cheap to what it normally is. Invented by market traders and street merchants, Cockney Rhyming Slang was probably first used to disguise what was being said by passers-by. From our linguistic research, we've confirmed that above all, British people aresarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk. 29. 30. Being nicked refers to being caught by the police and arrested. They were so hyper. Skive off the British slang term used to describe avoiding the job or duties that you are meant to be completing. Dosh - another slang term for "dough" and referred to cash mostly. Whether you think this list is the "bee's knees" or if it's enough to make you want to "pop your clogs," scroll on to discover 88 very Britishphrases in alphabetical order that will confuse anybody who didn't grow up in the UK. The term is likely to be the mispronunciation of "box standard", an informal term for goods that come straight from the manufacturer's box with no customization or . And in the United Kingdom despite the English language we're sometimes a little lost in translation especially when conversing with the young'uns. light-hearted way of mocking someone you love for something that they did or said. Crack on to find out how to use phrases like This weather is pants or what your British aunt means by telling you Its parky out there! when she visits on her next holiday. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. used to describe something that has been repaired or completed in a quick time without any care or attention. Offer excludes Edinburgh Tattoo and Floriade departures. "I wangled some first-class seats by being nice to the cabin crew!". slang definition: 1. very informal language that is usually spoken rather than written, used especially by particular. Understanding British English can sometimes be very difficult, and despite the small size of the country, there are vastly different accents and slang terms. Some entries also feature surprising facts aboutthe phrase's origins, with a few quintessentially British idiomsnot actually coming from British roots at all. It is an English-speaking country, after all. However, it was pointed out that my description may not have been accurate. How's it going? he British love their tea, and this is a term used to describe a tea that features a lot of milk and is typically quite weak. Bloke aterm used to describe a typical adult male in the UK. This road is chocka! - a simple question but doesn't require a long answer. his is a term used to describe something that is a guaranteed success. feeling of being angry or depressed at the actions of someone you care for. Beer is served in pints, or pint glasses, in the UK.In use: "Heading to the pub for a pint, fancy joining? Shambles this is a term used to refer to something that is in disarray or in a mess. A slap and a kick for being so quick!". ", A "par" breaches social and common courtesy, eg, a disrespectful comment could be seen as a "par. "This week's done me in already, and it's only Tuesday. 1)Aw shnap, son. "In use: "Wash your face& brush your Newtons because it's time for bed. Are yougoing on the pull?". You were absolutely sloshed!. Then, take this as a reference to being shocked by a blow to the mouth, or to clapping your hand to your mouth in astonishment.In use: "I was completely gobsmacked that Neal got the promotion. Do it that way, and Bobs your uncle!. "What's in that sandwich? I just washed my car and now its raining! Peckish used to describe a feeling of being hungry or craving something that is not quite a full meal.