"She's great fun, but she's a few sandwiches short of a picnic.". 2. Noshrefers to a hearty plate of food that is very tasty. "Faff" comes from the 17th century word "faffle," which means to flap about in the wind. "That's when all of the lights came on, and so we legged it.". ", "Give me a call" or "ring me." However, in the UK, someone that's "p*ssed" is most probably drunk. hile meaning something that is very healthy, fit can also mean someone who is very physically attractive. In use: "Lad, don't get cheeky with me or you'll go to your room. 84. as well as other partner offers and accept our. n event that disrupts your plans. term used to describe going out for the evening with the sole intention of attracting someone of the opposite sex. This colloquialism might be said by someone that has the situation under control. Perhaps the most interesting slang you'll hear in England is the infamous Cockney Rhyming Slang. This probably originates from the "uncool" appearance of anorak coats and the people wearing them. A Few Spanners Short Meaning: To be dumb or not fully there. 10. as two meanings, either a muddy marsh or a phrase used to describe the toilet. 4. You should strive to learn British slang if you want to surprise people with your pronunciation. ", Similar to "nerd" or "geek" but less derogatory someone that takes academic study very seriously might be described as a "swot. 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. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. 3. ", Interpretation: Beingexhausted that you cant do anything else. Commonly used for young children. ", 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. Chavs tend to wear tracksuits and other sportswear, or sometimes gaudy jewelry. That was bonkers!. Ace. ", 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. Things have gone a bit pear-shaped!, 70. 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. Derived from "mint condition," which refers to something pre-owned that retains its pristine condition, although something that's just "mint" doesn't have to be pre-owned. "Tinkle" refers to a phone's ring, while "blower" is slang or telephone and refers to the device that predated phones on Naval ships. A phrase is whispered around a circleand the last person to hear the phrase has to guess what the initial phrase was. Faffing - to waste your time doing nothing special. Being nicked refers to being caught by the police and arrested. "Mortal" describes someone highly intoxicated or drunk in a sloppy manner. The termcomes from the Scottish slang word "ming," meaning faeces. Honking . 40. Daft 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. term used to describe something that is not very good. 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. "In use: "Wash your face& brush your Newtons because it's time for bed. 66. The origins of the word are widely disputed. Lacking in energy; usually after a long period of exertion. Stop faffing around and get on with it. New words and phrases are continuously being added and used. I'm Hank Marvin.". British slang (Wikipedia) punt [punt] {v.} 1. Even different parts of the same city can use diverse terms and accents. Things have gone a bit pear-shaped!, phrase commonly used to describe something that was very easy to complete. 93. Savings not valid on all itineraries and/or departure dates, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Yucky refers to a food or drink item that does not taste nice or has gone off. Theres something uncanny about hearing a phrase, word, or object youre familiar with being used or referred to in a new way. Barea British term commonly used to describe a lot of something. From ends one who is "from the streets" and so knows what's going on.. Codswallop. Ill have a bacon butty please. Commonly used for young children. A repair job that's beencompleted in a hurry and will probably fall apart reasonably soon is considered a "botch job. Stop talking waffle and get to the point. Snookereda British term taken from the game of the same name, this term refers to a situation where there is no clear or obvious route of escape. Gobsmacked. slightly negative term used for someone who repeatedly makes mistakes or is particularly gullible and will believe anything. 45. (Meanings) Being violently sick. 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. his is the brides equivalent of a Stag Night and is otherwise known as a bachelorette party. For example, busted can mean "broken" or "ugly," sick can mean "ill" or "very cool," and hip can mean "trendy" or "fashionably un-trendy.". That was a complete shambles. term used to describe a typical adult male in the UK. Im a bit cheesed off they never called me on my birthday. 1. "What's in that sandwich? 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! A Dictionary of American Idioms mark [mark] {n.} A suitable victim for a con or swindle. Alright mate. I can't be fucked with her.". Yeah, I don't Adam, yeah, I figure I could use it. 9. ", Interpretation: In the UK, the word "pants" typically refers to underwear. ", "I bumped into him towards the end of his four-day bender. "Press down the clutch, put it into gear, then slowly ease off the clutch again. For more information, please see our cookie policy. Blatant refers to something that is very obvious. Slang terms are almost an entirely separate language, and it can be very hard to pick these terms up as they are not listed in your usual English language textbooks. Lend me a quid mate. Marvin played guitar in Cliff Richard's backing band in the 1960s. "Take the Mickey" is an abbreviation of "taking the Mickey Bliss," which is Cockney rhyming slang for "take the p***.". "Mint" might be used when referring to something of the highest calibre. Also for nonsense, as in bullshit or absurdity. British term of endearment used when a friend or loved one is being a little rude or disrespectful but in a funny way. Men's urinals were free of charge. common abbreviation for Isnt it. Daft afriendly term that is not offensive and used to describe something that is a little stupid or silly. ", Interpretation: Football - The national sport of England. The town boasts a family owned gas station, a darling hotel, and lots of cute vintage shops and art galleries. ypically used to describe someone who is having a public display of anger or frustration. phrase used to describe something that was truly excellent and superior to anything else. "Pull" can also be used as a verb. Texas slang words and phrases. you were legless last night!. He pulled a blinder there.". "I fancy that's going to end up all pear shaped! However, it does mean kiss, also known as French kissing or making out. This slang term could be a British abbreviation of the French "faux pas," meaning an embarrassing or tactless remark in a social situation. For example, a south Londoner will speak very different from someone born in the north of the city. ", An event that disrupts the natural, pre-planned order of events could be described as a "spanner in the works.". 4. 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. 19. "I don't mean this as a par, but did you remember to wash this morning? In American English, you'd probably hear a "wow" instead.In use: "Blimey, it's late! Rubbishmulti-use term that can either describe your household waste or something that was very bad or below expectations. Bagsy the front seat of the car. (As in, this article is smashing.). 80. I cant be arsed to go to work today. multi-use term that can either describe your household waste or something that was very bad or below expectations. term used to describe something that is better than anything else or is the pinnacle of their profession. Top editors give you the stories you want delivered right to your inbox each weekday. A brolly is a slang term for an umbrella, something that is needed very regularly in the UK. 47. 49. Splash out and treat yourself, you only live once!. Nowadays, it's mostly a way for kids to pull pranks on their friends. Lived in England (2005-2009) 11 mo. The meaning of this slang has been debated at length. 67. Cockney Slang uses language in one of the most interesting ways, by rhyming with what you mean but substituting different (and dissimilar) words. Rough this is commonly used to describe a feeling of being sick or unwell. ", Interpretation: Contrary to being quids in, you can also be skint which means to be broke or out of luck. Bonkers aphrase used to describe a situation that is particularly surreal and unexpected. 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. Dosh - another slang term for "dough" and referred to cash mostly. You don't want to be described as "dim," "a mug," or "a few sandwiches short of a picnic." 53. 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. Lend me a quid mate. Here are some of our favourites. "I wangled some first-class seats by being nice to the cabin crew!". However, other people believe that "shirty" has connotations of being dishevelled. 50. 25. is a British term you use to describe feeling devastated or upset. Footy acolloquial term that is a shortened version of football (soccer). Jammy Meaning: To be lucky. Texas slang. Are you going to the footy?. Translation: Hello, my good sir. Just roll with it. The smogs werecompared to pea soup due to their colour and density. As in as soccer, as in football, as in soccer.In use: "Fancy a game of footie in the park? gambling term used to describe placing a bet or wager on something, often these bets are relatively low and have a small stake. Youre really taking the biscuit now. However, in the UK, someone that's "pissed" is most probably drunk. "That guy's got suchswagger he's a proper geezer. 50 Must-Know British Slang Words and Phrases 1. That was naff. Her majestys pleasure despite its pleasant sound, this phrase refers to someone who has spent time in prison. "Is it just me or is that painting a bit skew-whiff?". Hank Marvin is a British musician from the 1960s and 1970s, and is a pretty obscure reference nowadays. 77. 11. This is typically used in the south of the country and particularly amongst the younger generations. Im going to nick that coat. The "bee's knees" referred to small or insignificant details when it was first documented in the 18th century. Derived from the Newcastle sociolect, "mortal" was made widely known across the country in 2011 by reality TV show "Geordie Shore.". The "wind-up merchant" will often claim to be making their comments as a light-hearted jest when the recipients start becoming irritated. 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. 18. Each term is partneredwith a description and example. Stop talking waffle and get to the point. phrase often used in the South and London regions that describes a big party, packed with drinking and dancing. ", "We should've taken the other route. To "flog" means to sell something usually quickly and cheaply. A slightly less pleasant way of saying this is taking the piss. "In use: "That was a proper good footie game yesterday. "Did you see Scott last night? The people are the nicest in the world. No other language in the world has been as bastardised as this one! Faff aBritish slangterm used to describe someone who is being overly fussy or delaying something with unnecessary tasks. Backhander aBritish term used to refer to the money used to describe bribing someone. Now that's a proper breakfast.". When something's questionable for suspicious, we call it dodgy. It may originate from subcultures, criminals during the 16th century in saloons and gambling houses, or the codes certain vulnerable communities use to survive. "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. Bob's your uncle you're driving!". A "knacker" was the person that slaughtered worn-out horses in the 19th and 20th centuries for their meat, hoofs, and hide. Barmy: crazy, insane; always derogatory. ", It's similar to "scoot over" or "move over. 57. Brolly aword that every Brit knows! Bloke. ", "Joe's children are absolute rascals they tied my shoelaces together last week!". A disorganised mess or chaotic environment might be described as a "shambles. This is probablyhow the term came about. Hitting the bullseye was such a fluke!. "Ha! 26. is a shop that is typically opened late into the night and serves essential groceries and alcohol. 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!. A "pea-souper" is a thick fog, often with a yellow or black tinge, caused by air pollution. Although it's more often used as a synonym for raincoat, an anorak is something slightly different in playground slang. The word "shirt" is derived from the Norse for "short," hence short-tempered. A "chav" is a young hooligan, particularly of lower socioeconomic status, who acts aggressively. Flutter agambling term used to describe placing a bet or wager on something, often these bets are relatively low and have a small stake. Interpretation: Something or someone a little suspicious or questionable.In use: "This milk seems a bit dodgy, when did you pick it up? 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? The Luxe Nomad is all about immersing in the local culture. And in the United Kingdom despite the English language we're sometimes a little lost in translation especially when conversing with the young'uns. While lad is used for boys and younger men.In use: "I'm heading to the pub with the blokes. 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.) 69. "Lurgy" is probably based on a mispronunciation of the word "allergy. "How was the hostel?" his is the name given to the boys-only night out for a groom to be. It might come from knacker, or "a person who buys animal carcasses or slaughters worn-out livestock so they can be rendered . Alright mate. Hitting the bullseye was such a fluke!. British slang has derived from Elizabethan times in (1558), and around Shakespeare's lifetime. From Stormzy and Adele to Dua Lipa and the Arctic Monkeys, they all use certain words and phrases that are distinctly British. 83. It works. Some believe it's derived from the Dutch word "blute," meaning "bare." "In use: "That was a tidy bit of fun. The London Slang Dictionary Project ("written by teenagers for their peers and for their teachers") includes:. ", "I was going to go out tonight but when I finished work I was absolutely zonked.". We will be mailing it to you shortly and you can expect it to arrive in the next 7-10 days! Might could. Gormless anegative term used to describe someone who is incredibly foolish or lacking in intelligence. Do you know anyone that might be interested?". There were bare people in the club last night. common phrase used to describe wanting someone to telephone you. Quid a Britishterm used to describe a single pound sterling. "Goodness, you're full of beans this morning!". Gobsmacked a British slang phrase used to describe amazement, I was gobsmacked, it was so good!. Im a bit cheesed off they never called me on my birthday. For example, 'Cheers for getting me that drink, Steve'. That was a complete shambles. Gutted Meaning: Being heartbroken or upset over something. "Over-egging the pudding" means embellishing or over-doing something to the extent that it's detrimental to the finished product. 5. The best way to learn a "new" language is to immerse yourself in the culture! 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. ", Benders often last over 24 hours, and so you might say that someone is on "a weekend bender," or a "three-day bender. Bevvy Meaning: An alcoholic drink. 3. friendly British term used to describe someone who is very drunk. Alright avery common and interchangeable word. Therefore, if you're "having a butchers," you're having a look at something. Baccy Meaning: Tobacco. Although its origins are largely debated, the term's meaning has evolved over the last 50 years alone. ", Interpretation: A Scottish phrase, also popular in Northern Ireland, that means "little." Translate any file to any language in one click. PANTS as British slang can be used in a couple of ways. Having a strop aBritish slang termtypically used to describe someone who is having a public display of anger or frustration. friendly way of describing a cup of. This is typically used in the south of the country and particularly amongst the younger generations. 74. Cheesed off afeeling of being angry or depressed at the actions of someone you care for. The name of a strongly-brewed cup of English breakfast tea with milk the way that tea is most commonly drunk in the UK. his is a term used to describe something that is a guaranteed success. Theres nowt wrong with that. 38. This cheery phrase is widely believed to originate from Northern factory workers around the time of the industrial revolution. To "splash out" means spending significant amounts of money on a particular item or event. "Hank Marvin" is Cockney rhyming slang for "starving. ", "Grab your brolly, it's drizzling outside. his is a term that refers to something that is going very well. It is used to describe someone who is so surprised that it looks like someone hit them. "Gob" is the informal word for mouth, and "smack" means to hit something with your hand.