", "What's happened here? 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. Plastered another popular phrase used to describe someone who was very intoxicated with alcohol. This colloquialism might be said by someone that has the situation under control. You've more than likely heard or come across a British slang word or two. 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.". Offer excludes Edinburgh Tattoo and Floriade departures. Im snookered!. ", Similar to "nerd" or "geek" but less derogatory someone that takes academic study very seriously might be described as a "swot. Mug aslightly negative term used for someone who repeatedly makes mistakes or is particularly gullible and will believe anything. 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. Love is blind but neighbours aren't. English Slang- Romance and Pick Up Lines are for anyone. Historically, only women would announce they were going to "spend a penny," as only women's public toilets required a penny to lock. The phrase goes back to Victorian public toilets, which required users to insert a single penny in order to operate the lock. - a simple question but doesn't require a long answer. British term used to describe the cost of an item that is very cheap to what it normally is. Maybe you binge BBC shows, follow The Royal Family, are a total Anglophile, or have a couple of friends from London. ", "Sam did a botch job on these shelves they're wonky! Coming in a variety of flavours, this is the British equivalent of a packet of potato chips. Cockney Slang uses language in one of the most interesting ways, by rhyming with what you mean but substituting different (and dissimilar) words. Can also mean to pass something with flying colors. Flutter agambling term used to describe placing a bet or wager on something, often these bets are relatively low and have a small stake. ", 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. Plastered Another British slang term for being drunk. Are you going to the footy?. Theres nowt wrong with that. Even simple words like 'twas', which nows means 'it was' have changed slowly over time. You might buy a "round" of drinks for your friends at the pub, in the understanding that they will each buy you a drink as part of their "rounds" later on. 47. is a British term you use to describe feeling devastated or upset. Dodgyused to describe something or someone that is suspicious or questionable. Hen Do this is the brides equivalent of a Stag Night and is otherwise known as a bachelorette party. In the 1960s, someone that was unfashionable might be nicknamed a "wally," according to dictionary.com. ", A situation which has quickly evolved into an accident waiting to happen might be described as "gone pear-shaped.". If you're really delighted about something you can even be chuffed to bits. Blatant refers to something that is very obvious. refers to a hearty plate of food that is very tasty. Other conditions may apply. duration of time that refers to a period of 14 days or two consecutive weeks. Shambles this is a term used to refer to something that is in disarray or in a mess. Bits and bobsa term used to describe an assortment or collection of different items that do not have any real connection to each other. To "flog" means to sell something usually quickly and cheaply. "Cack" isold-fashioned slang for faeces. Although Merriam-Webster is a dictionary of American English, it contains a range of words rarely heard outside Britain. 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. 100 Black-Owned Businesses . "Is it just me or is that painting a bit skew-whiff?". Slang is leading the way in international workforce development with the largest offering of professional English courses, delivered through an adaptive and engaging SaaS platform. 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.". There aren't a lot of people so whenever you see somebody you always have to stop to say hi. Minging aslightly derogative term used to describe something that is either disgusting or gross. However, other people believe that "shirty" has connotations of being dishevelled. or its abbreviated version bants, refers to a witty, quick and fun joke, usually at the expense of a friend or loved one. Budge up and make some room for us, too!". 99. Top editors give you the stories you want delivered right to your inbox each weekday. common phrase used to describe wanting someone to telephone you. ", Interpretation: To get started or continue with something.In use: There's more to learn below, better crack on.. "If it all works out as planned, he'll be quids in.". phr. Try it for free! Available now from major retailers in prints and eBook form. 3. A Few Spanners Short Meaning: To be dumb or not fully there. 55. Texas slang. Im going to the bog, be back in a minute. It works. Commonly used for young children. ", "I was absolutely car-parked last night. 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. Bevvy Meaning: An alcoholic drink. plonker {n.} 1. I was plastered last night!, 72. 8. Something that takes a lot of effort and probably isn't going to be worth all of the effort, either, could be described as "long." The Inbetweeners is a very southern England show, while The Royle Family caters more to the north of the country. Offer excludes Edinburgh Tattoo and Floriade departures. Brass monkeys aslang phrase that is slowly disappearing but is used to describe very cold weather. This classic phrase is another way of telling someone that their opinion is not appreciated in the given scenario. Hello mate, how are you?. Although it sounds crude, the phrase is actually considered a polite way of announcing that you are going to visit the bathroom. From our linguistic research, we've confirmed that above all, British people aresarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk. You don't want to be described as "dim," "a mug," or "a few sandwiches short of a picnic." This is more commonly known in the US as "Murphy's law. 41. Yucky refers to a food or drink item that does not taste nice or has gone off. ", Interpretation: When youre having a very good chat with friends, more than likely with some gossip involved.In use: "I just got off the phone with Sarah. However,"the full Monty" actually refers topursuing something to the absolute limits. ", "Don't trust him he's a smarmy geezer. term used to describe something that is better than anything else or is the pinnacle of their profession. "I wangled some first-class seats by being nice to the cabin crew!". Lacking in energy; usually after a long period of exertion. Interpretation: Something or someone a little suspicious or questionable.In use: "This milk seems a bit dodgy, when did you pick it up? Bog has two meanings, either a muddy marsh or a phrase used to describe the toilet. 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. Here are some of our favourites. 79. "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. A repair job that's beencompleted in a hurry and will probably fall apart reasonably soon is considered a "botch job. As the presenters talk, you will soon start picking up on the phrases and terms they use to describe certain situations and conversations. friendly way of describing a cup of. colloquial term that is a shortened version of football (soccer). If the joker forgets to say "no returns of any kind," the recipient can say "a slap and a kick for being so quick," accompanied by a slap and a kick. A "knacker" was the person that slaughtered worn-out horses in the 19th and 20th centuries for their meat, hoofs, and hide. 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. 17. That was bonkers!. And today'post is about where it all started - British Slang! 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. A meal that you find very tasty could be referred to as a proper nosh up. ", If someone has done something highly irritating or surprisingin an exasperating fashion, you might say that they've "taken the biscuit.". ", "Of course my toast had to land on the floor butter-side-down. Some believe it's derived from the Dutch word "blute," meaning "bare." term used to describe someone, often children, or a pet that is very over-excited. 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. Interpretation: A geek or nerd. Honking . Commonly used for young children. It is sods law my car wont start on the one day I really need it. ", "I'm going to make us spaghetti carbonara for dinner. 45. 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. 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 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!. 1. adj. British Slang: Can You Translate These Words from British English to English? Im going to nick that coat. From pairing to vocabulary - you'll be a pro in no time, See England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Vibrant cities, coastal towns, stone circles, and more, General Inquiries: info@getours.com Media Contact: social@getours.com Customer Service: guest.services@getours.com, Grand European TravelBridgeport Center Suite 3507632 SW Durham RoadTigard, OR 97224. "Mint" might be used when referring to something of the highest calibre. 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. Gutted - is a British term you use to describe feeling devastated or upset. "Wow you've really splashed out on this party! ", Someone that's energetic, lively, or enthusiastic might be described as "full of beans.". Anyone would think the Brits like a drink. He was given a backhander. Often used when referring to a cup of tea. Numpty alight-hearted British term referring to someone who does something stupid or says something that is incorrect. Another great way of picking up certain colloquialisms and slang phrases is to listen to both popular and local radio shows. For example, busted can mean "broken" or "ugly," sick can mean "ill" or "very cool," and hip can mean "trendy" or "fashionably un-trendy.". An adjective used to advocate something that is impressive or agreeable, dench is the equivalent of "solid" or "cool" when used in response to someone else. ", Interpretation: To be bitterly disappointed about something.In use: "Alice was absolutely gutted when the book ended the way it did. The phrase is reportedly old slang from the Royal Air Forceand was used to described awry expeditions and flights. 49. However, it does mean kiss, also known as French kissing or making out. I'm Hank Marvin.". Nick aBritish term used to steal something. A "dog's dinner" is a mess or fiasco sometimes also referred to as a "dog's breakfast.". Alright mate. his is a term used to describe something that is a guaranteed success. I cant be arsed to go to work today. 32. 2. That person looked dodgy, so I stayed away. Also for nonsense, as in bullshit or absurdity. 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. "Goodness, you're full of beans this morning!". This is not a British slang phrase that trips off the tongue, and it's probably one of the least romantic sounding words ever! (Meanings) Consistently being on the right side of good fortune. Check out our guide on the top 5 British TV Shows that will help you learn British slang and English in general from the comfort of your own home (Click here). Taking the biscuit an old English phrase used when someone is beginning to push their luck or push their boundaries. 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. Yeah, I don't Adam, yeah, I figure I could use it. Loo acommon term used to describe going to the toilet or bathroom, Im just going to the loo. ", "We should've taken the other route. The bees knees a British slangterm used to describe something that is better than anything else or is the pinnacle of their profession. Alright avery common and interchangeable word. Brolly aword that every Brit knows! his is a term commonly used to refer to having a short nap or snooze during the day. Do it that way, and Bobs your uncle!. 16 6 Valid for new bookings only made through December 31, 2023 for travel through December 31, 2023; full payment is due within three days of booking. 46. "Tinkle" refers to a phone's ring, while "blower" is slang or telephone and refers to the device that predated phones on Naval ships. Is that ham and tuna? More likely, a person who has a very strong interest, perhaps a bit obsessive, in niche subjects. 43. 37. This is typically used in the south of the country and particularly amongst the younger generations. Even different parts of the same city can use diverse terms and accents. Its no secret that the English language is becoming increasingly widespread. Please call us for assistance at 1-877-622-9109. However, over time words have gradually been made simpler and easier to say (because human's got lazy). 56. But sometimes, the slang word is a reused word with a new meaning. 1. Mate - this 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 a bit of a botch job. 2. Minted is a British term typically used to describe someone who is wealthy and has a large amount of money, Theyre minted. 2. Powered by our not-for-profit foundation, TreadRight, Were probably all familiar with something being smashing at this point. 30. Thanks Hugh and Martine. ", Brits are known for favouring a drink or two, so much so thatalmost any noun can be used as a substitute for "drunk. his is a term used to describe someone who is incredibly eager and full of energy to achieve something. his is the name given to the boys-only night out for a groom to be. The phrase originates from the game "Chinese Whispers" commonly played at children's parties. That was a right spanner in the works that I didnt see coming., 96. Meaning of the Andes in English the Andes noun [ plural ] uk / n.diz / us / n.diz / a large group of mountains in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina: Interestingly, though it deals with traditional indigenous clothing in the Andes, this book is not about textiles or weaving. (Meanings) Very good. "Butcher's hook" is Cockney rhyming slang for "look." Learn something new or share one or two that we ought to put on the list with us! Hench - a tall lad with strong muscles. Jammy . efers to a food or drink item that does not taste nice or has gone off. British slang term commonly used by British children and teens to stake a claim on something. In British slang, bog-standard is used to talk about something ordinary, basic, without any special features added; it carries a slightly dismissive and derogatory tone. Nowadays, it's mostly a way for kids to pull pranks on their friends. 58. Im cream crackered!. 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 . Other shows such as The Great British Bake Off are great in helping you to see how certain phrases are used in context. The phrase was first documented in the BBC's "Lenny Henry Christmas Special" in 1987. "Gob" is slang for mouth, so if you're gobsmacked, you're shocked to the point of clasping your jaw in disbelief. Fixin' to. plonker. Each term is partneredwith a description and example. "Taking the biscuit" is the equivalent of taking the nonexistent medal for foolishness or incredulity. sarcastic, unsympathetic, and often rather drunk. his is a common phrase for when something that can go wrong, does go wrong. ", 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.". Check out the fine ass sho-tee rockin' all dat ice. "She's great fun, but she's a few sandwiches short of a picnic.". Libes is a contraction and solely British university slang verb of "a library". Just your bog-standard dorm, really.". Although its origins are largely debated, the term's meaning has evolved over the last 50 years alone. In American English, you'd probably hear a "wow" instead.In use: "Blimey, it's late! 4. Ace. a term used to describe an assortment or collection of different items that do not have any real connection to each other. ", Interpretation: Beingexhausted that you cant do anything else. Don't get this confused with the other . 80. "Quid" is British slang for "pounds," eg, "five quid" means 5. Our mission. 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 . He's turned into such a swot! You'll notice a lot of abbreviations here, which is all part of the fun of learning how to speak Texas slang. "Flogging" also refers to whipping a racehorse in order to make it move faster, so there is some speculation into whether you flog goods in order to make them shift faster, too. 34. word that every Brit knows! nother Cockney rhyming slang phrase that refers to someone who is lying. Unrelatedly, "Clangers" was also a children's TV show from the 1970s about pink mouse-like creatures that lived on the moon. Cheeky aBritish term of endearment used when a friend or loved one is being a little rude or disrespectful but in a funny way. That was yucky!. In use: "Sorry, I won't make it to the pub tonight, I'm a bit skint this week. 68. This probably originates from the "uncool" appearance of anorak coats and the people wearing them.