his is the name given to the boys-only night out for a groom to be. "Lurgy" is probably based on a mispronunciation of the word "allergy. Plastered another popular phrase used to describe someone who was very intoxicated with alcohol. The locals like their slang more than most, and deciphering it requires expert supervision. This classic British idiom may seem stereotypically twee, however, some sources believe that "tickety-boo" in fact derives from theHindu phrase "hk hai, bb," meaning "it's alright, sir. 22. his is a term used to describe someone who is incredibly eager and full of energy to achieve something. What I mean is that this once mighty British Empire that more or less covered a quarter of the world's land surface could not ever have imagined that English would evolve to almost a million words - and almost every single one of them would be . Interpretation: "A cuppa is the shortened version of the phrase a cup of tea.In use: You might have heard the expression fancy a cuppa? which more than likely was an offer to have a nice cup of tea together. To "splash out" means spending significant amounts of money on a particular item or event. 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. Learn something new or share one or two that we ought to put on the list with us! ", Interpretation: Wanting, liking, or thinkingIn use: "Fancy a cuppa?" He was given a backhander. It should not be used in formal contexts. That person looked dodgy, so I stayed away. 99. This is probablyhow the term came about. Gobsmacked a British slang phrase used to describe amazement, I was gobsmacked, it was so good!. 94. Meaning. ", Something full to the brim, or rammed, could be described as "chockalock. A "chav" is a young hooligan, particularly of lower socioeconomic status, who acts aggressively. Gormless anegative term used to describe someone who is incredibly foolish or lacking in intelligence. Full of beans this is a term used to describe someone who is incredibly eager and full of energy to achieve something. To "gallivant" means to roam, or to set off on an expedition, with the sole intention of having some light-hearted fun. - a simple question but doesn't require a long answer. ", "We should've taken the other route. sarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk. He was a wreck.". You can feel fully confident retaining your travel arrangements and monies with Grand European Travel and The Travel Corporation, 100 years of travel experience and industry partnerships, A global business, owned and led by the Tollman family, TTC is debt-free, financially responsible and fully accredited, Sign up to order your FREE travel brochure subscription and get exclusive offers only available to our subscribers, Brochures can only be mailed to United States addresses. Moreish this is a phrase used to describe something that is very tasty and addictive. It's a funky throwback to 1990s street slang and just fun to say. Pronounced "nackered" (with a silent "k" as in "knee"), knackered is a popular term describes the state of being worn out or exhausted. In the 1960s, someone that was unfashionable might be nicknamed a "wally," according to dictionary.com. To "take the Mickey" means to take liberties at the expense of others and can be used in both a lighthearted and an irritated fashion. "I pigged out last night at McDonald's.". "That's when all of the lights came on, and so we legged it.". Other conditions may apply. For more information, please see our cookie policy. Others believe the word is a contraction of the 17th century phrase "by our lady," and is blasphemous. The action of chatting away with thejaw bobbing up and down resembles a chin "wagging" like a dog's tail. Otherwise known as a bachelors or Bucks party. Off-licenceis a shop that is typically opened late into the night and serves essential groceries and alcohol. The phrase originates from the game "Chinese Whispers" commonly played at children's parties. Peckish used to describe a feeling of being hungry or craving something that is not quite a full meal. Eg. However,"the full Monty" actually refers topursuing something to the absolute limits. As a result, "pinch punch, first of the month" was a way of warding off witches and bad luck for the near future. This phrase is used to confirm or agree with something that another person has just said. Plus, receive travel inspiration, news and latest promotions. 9. You played a blinder last night! or That was a blinding performance. 2. The termcomes from the Scottish slang word "ming," meaning faeces. I'm just so knackered right now.". If you're really delighted about something you can even be chuffed to bits. Stop talking waffle and get to the point. Recently I conducted an activity at my school to spread a bit of information about common British slang. 2. So how do you learn British slang? A "geezer" is a man that could be described as "suave" or "dapper," and is often suited and booted. ", Interpretation: A multi-purpose word that can be used as a toast, to thank someone, or even say goodbye.In use: "Cheers, thanks for dinner tonight. Innit acommon abbreviation for Isnt it. Waffle afriendly term used to describe someone who is incessantly talking and mentioning things that are not relevant. This phrase became mainstream in the USA in the 1920s despite its British origins,but its popularity in the Stateshas dwindled since the turn of the century. as two meanings, either a muddy marsh or a phrase used to describe the toilet. Cuppa afriendly way of describing a cup of. 40 Quirky British Slang Words - Meanings of Popular Britishisms. 86. gambling term used to describe placing a bet or wager on something, often these bets are relatively low and have a small stake. 90. phrase often used in the South and London regions that describes a big party, packed with drinking and dancing. ", "What's happened here? A British slang word for "nonsense," codswallop came about because of Hiram Codd, a soda salesman who developed a bottle with a glass marble stopper in it and when the bottle was shaken, the carbonation pushed the marble into the neck and formed a seal. Porkies . hile meaning something that is very healthy, fit can also mean someone who is very physically attractive. Ditching is the American slang word for the British slang word: "skive." G.O.A.T: if people called you this, they're actually praising you because it means Greatest of All Time and is a popular term in basketball in the US. After a long university day, being knackered, which is one of the most popular British English slang words and phrases, simply means being exhausted. This is a shambles! Thanks Hugh and Martine. Can also mean to pass something with flying colors. ", If someone has done something highly irritating or surprisingin an exasperating fashion, you might say that they've "taken the biscuit.". plonker {n.} 1. friendly British term used to describe someone who is very drunk. 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!. "He handles a screwdriver very cack-handedly. Common British Slang Words or Phrases 1. 88. The origins of the phrase are largely debated online, however, it's believed that "to nick" as in to steal influenced the slang term for prison, as being imprisoned is similar to being "stolen" away. Wally aless common term nowadays, but a Wally is someone who is a little silly or has said something stupid. You must be chuffed.". Certainly, American English is lighter on the ear for most people who speak English as a second language, too - all thanks to Hollywood. Flutter agambling term used to describe placing a bet or wager on something, often these bets are relatively low and have a small stake. 64. Bender: derogatory term for homosexual, like "poof." (Note: You probably shouldn't use it or you'll get slapped, but it's worthy of note for giving Futurama a very different meaning.) Although it sounds crude, the phrase is actually considered a polite way of announcing that you are going to visit the bathroom. 1. adj. Dude, the party was lit last night. Her majestys pleasure despite its pleasant sound, this phrase refers to someone who has spent time in prison. 18. Typically used in London, it has expanded to other regions of the country. How to use it in a sentence: "I'd love to chat with you, but I have to pass. 37. 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. "What are you up to this weekend? Hunky-dory this is a term that refers to something that is going very well. Penis. Nowadays, "bloody" is used widely it's even used in children's films such as "Harry Potter" andis arguably one of the most quintessentially British words on the list. High Tea - Less formal than afternoon Tea - usually a late afternoon . Fancy an interchangeable term used for an object or person that you have taken a particular liking to. Minted is a British term typically used to describe someone who is wealthy and has a large amount of money, Theyre minted. A phrase is whispered around a circleand the last person to hear the phrase has to guess what the initial phrase was. Commonly used as a greeting and does not usually require a response. "Wind your neck in and stop being so nosy! According to the Metro, the playground ritual originates from the medieval times, when a "pinch" of salt was believing to make witches weak, and the "punch" resembled banishing the witches entirely. Do you know these British insults, slangs and phrases? There are also some fantastic sitcoms that can help you to learn how certain phrases can be used to elicit laughs. That was wicked!. Daft afriendly term that is not offensive and used to describe something that is a little stupid or silly. ", A nosey neighbour,often caught peering out on their street's activities from a curtained window, might be referred to as a "curtain twitcher. 3. "Shirly definitely fancies Roger." Dynamite/Wicked Dynamite is used for awesome and cool. term used to describe a typical adult male in the UK. ", Interpretation: Used in mainly Scottish English or Northern English to mean a girl or young woman. ", "I bumped into him towards the end of his four-day bender. ", Interpretation: A Scottish phrase, also popular in Northern Ireland, that means "little." Even simple words like 'twas', which nows means 'it was' have changed slowly over time. Piece of cake aBritish slangphrase commonly used to describe something that was very easy to complete. Having a natter aphrase commonly used to describe having a friendly chat or gossip with close friends and family. he British slang term used to describe avoiding the job or duties that you are meant to be completing. "Take the Mickey" is an abbreviation of "taking the Mickey Bliss," which is Cockney rhyming slang for "take the p***.". This intensifier can be added to practically any sentence in order to demonstrate incredulity or anger. I cant be arsed to go to work today. Splash out and treat yourself, you only live once!. Mug Your Travel Credit will be sent by email. 77. ", "Sod's law" is often used to explain bad luck or freakish acts of misfortune. Don't say soccer to a British person. Received Pronunciation is by far the most sought after English accent in the world and thats why many people wish to learn it. Chuffed used to mean 'plump', so I'm not sure why or how it now means delighted. "Quid" is British slang for "pounds," eg, "five quid" means 5. Just your bog-standard dorm, really.". ", "Yeah, he's been swotting like mad for his Spanish exam. Hello mate, how are you?. slang phrase that is slowly disappearing but is used to describe very cold weather. This slang term could be a British abbreviation of the French "faux pas," meaning an embarrassing or tactless remark in a social situation. That's minging.". "When are we going to eat? Even visiting different areas within the same city, you'll begobsmacked as common colloquialisms change their tune. Dont be offended John, were only having some banter. or "Et voila!". Botch job aBritish slang termused to describe something that has been repaired or completed in a quick time without any care or attention. ", Interpretation: To be extremely good, attractive, enjoyable, or pleasant.In use: "That last chapter was smashing, I didn't see that twist coming at all! Its brass monkeys out there!, 89. 30. We never send pushy emails. 62. "I could just about deal with the dog barking at 5:30a.m., but the lawnmower at 3 a.m. really takes the biscuit.". term used to describe someone, often children, or a pet that is very over-excited. Protect your vacation with travel insurance. Theres something uncanny about hearing a phrase, word, or object youre familiar with being used or referred to in a new way. Splash out and treat yourself, you only live once!. 10. The origins of the word are widely disputed. ", Someone on a spree of excessive drinking and mischief is "on a bender. ", Interpretation: An alternative to "very" or "extremely. I feel really rough, so I cant come out. No other language in the world has been as bastardised as this one! 35. 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! That was naff. 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. General British Slang Bloke Meaning: A man. Ill have a bacon butty please. 3. 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. Offer cannot be booked online. That was yucky!. Fancy a pint after work?, 10. If you want to tell someone to not concern themselves with issues that don't directly affect them, you might tell them to "wind their neck in.". Commonly used as a greeting and does not usually require a response. The word could be a variation of "toddle" like a young child's first steps. Texas slang words and phrases. In use: "Every young lass or blokeneeds to go to a football game at least once. ", Interpretation: A problem that prevents something from happening the way that it was planned, similar to the phrase throw a wrench in the plans. And today'post is about where it all started - British Slang! (Meanings) Being violently sick. 78. Boozer acommon term used to describe a pub or drinking establishment that is not a bar or nightclub. term used to describe something that is not very good. Think twice before you ask someone if they know a good place to get some food. Im cream crackered!. ", An act which could be deemed as impolite or shameless, but for some reason comes across asfunny or endearing to others, would be described as "cheeky. Naff aterm used to describe something that is not very good. Do it that way, and Bobs your uncle!. I'm cream crackered. 5. Mug aslightly negative term used for someone who repeatedly makes mistakes or is particularly gullible and will believe anything. Libes is a contraction and solely British university slang verb of "a library". 60 British phrases that will confuse anybody who didn't grow up in the UK. Footie A slang term for the national sportfootball. Best Valentine's Day Restaurant Specials 2023. 16. I'll Give You What For! That was bonkers!. 33. If you read even half of those words in a British or Scottish accent, youre definitely ready to blend in with the locals on your next trip to the UK. 67. Hyper a British slangterm used to describe someone, often children, or a pet that is very over-excited. About to do. That was a piece of cake!, 71. plonker. We guide you through 100+ words and phrases from the English dictionary that may well have an entirely different meaning to what you first imagined. Interpretation: Cockney Slang relating to Newton Heath, an area of Manchester, England, which translates to "teeth. More likely, a person who has a very strong interest, perhaps a bit obsessive, in niche subjects. Andean Spanish is a dialect of Spanish spoken in the central Andes, from southern Colombia, with influence as far south as northern Chile and Northwestern Argentina, passing through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. The second highest definition in Urban Dictionary is the London one: common term used to describe going to the toilet or bathroom, Im just going to the loo. ", When someone makes a great speech while skirting around a subject or saying little of any value, you might say that they're talking "waffle," or that they're "waffling.". That person looked dodgy, so I stayed away. Otherwise known as a bachelors or Bucks party. }, {informal} To bring success in doing something; have a desired result. Whats more, being able to understand these nuances will ensure you can converse freely, recognise cultural references and avoid any embarrassing mishaps! British term used to refer to the money used to describe bribing someone. Learn the lingo and you'll soon be conversing like a true Brit. 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. 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. 82. Theres nowt wrong with that. The meaning of this slang has been debated at length. "Faff" comes from the 17th century word "faffle," which means to flap about in the wind. From our linguistic. Stop faffing around and get on with it. I feel really rough, so I cant come out. The people are the nicest in the world. Dont be offended John, were only having some banter. is a British term typically used to describe someone who is wealthy and has a large amount of money, Theyre minted. 84. Although it's more often used as a synonym for raincoat, an anorak is something slightly different in playground slang. 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! 27. While it mostly refers to something diminutive, it's also a descriptive word to add to a phrase to mean you're fond of it.In use: "Sam loves to take his wee dog to the park to watch the blokes play footie.". A general term of abuse (in use since 1960s but may have been popularised by the BBC comedy series Only Fools and Horses. you were legless last night!. Trolley an 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!. Stag Night this is the name given to the boys-only night out for a groom to be. ", Interpretation: To be bitterly disappointed about something.In use: "Alice was absolutely gutted when the book ended the way it did. "What's in that sandwich? Smarmya slightly derogative term used to describe someone who appears particularly unpleasant and tries to showcase how they are better than you. Commonly used for young children. 21. "Oh, nothing exciting to report. 3. 3. He was mortal.". That was a bit of a botch job. Ive got no time for your pork pies. This widely used British slang "bloke" is another word for "man" and is the American equivalent of "guy" or "dude". Although no one is completely sure of the word's origins, it could derive from thewords "cod" and "wallop," which historically meant "imitation" and "beer" respectively implying that "codswallop" is the kind of rubbish you make up when drunk. 44. Its no secret that the English language is becoming increasingly widespread. 5. Chuffed this is used to describe feeling very pleased and proud of something either you did, or a close friend accomplished. A brolly is a slang term for an umbrella, something that is needed very regularly in the UK. From our linguistic research, we've confirmed that above all, British people aresarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk. However, in the UK, someone that's "pissed" is most probably drunk. It's Sod's law. You'll notice a lot of abbreviations here, which is all part of the fun of learning how to speak Texas slang. 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 Blatant refers to something that is very obvious. ", "Of course my toast had to land on the floor butter-side-down. Commonly used for young children. 40. find English speakers in every corner of the world. 30+ Must-Know British Slang Words and Phrases Anorak Interpretation: A geek or nerd. A widely applicable descriptor of negative connotation; a nuisance. his is a phrase typically used in the south of the country and refers to a sandwich. colloquial term that is a shortened version of football (soccer). "In use: "That was a tidy bit of fun. ", Benders often last over 24 hours, and so you might say that someone is on "a weekend bender," or a "three-day bender. "Would you take a butchers at this broken bike for me? Our list of 101 words and phrases that will have you speaking the lingo as if you were born in England British Insults, Slang & Phrases: The Ultimate Guide Do you know these British insults, slangs and phrases? That was bonkers!. Bagsy the front seat of the car. Pinch Another word for stealing, or purchasing something at a heavily discounted rate. Gutted - is a British term you use to describe feeling devastated or upset. Im not being funny, but that meal was minging!. With the right attention, youll soon be speaking with a modern British accent! i.e. [1] Some travelling groups and Romani people specialised in the trade, and the name was particularly associated with indigenous Irish Travellers and Scottish Highland Travellers - the name of whose language Beurla Reagaird means "speech . Whether you are a native speaker looking for more lines, a fluent English speaker as a second language or a beginner wanting to get the attention of that cute person sitting on the other side, or even for the hopeless romantics who can't go without love.