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Mar 13, 2024 · Our guide to British slang words, lingo & expressions includes regional variations from the Queen's English, Cockney, to Welsh colloquialisms.
- "A few sandwiches short of a picnic" (PA. (PA) Someone that lacks common sense might be described as "a few sandwiches short of a picnic." The phrase was first documented in the BBC's "Lenny Henry Christmas Special" in 1987.
- "Anorak" Although it's more often used as a synonym for raincoat, an anorak is something slightly different in playground slang. Someone that's a little bit geeky, with strong interests or expertise in a niche area, might be referred to as an "anorak."
- "Bagsy" 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. Schoolkids might call "bagsy" on items from their friends' pack lunches, like an apple or a cereal bar, that the friend isn't going to eat.
- "Bee's knees" This phrase became mainstream in the USA in the 1920s despite its British origins, but its popularity in the States has dwindled since the turn of the century.
- Pissed.
- Nowt.
- Us.
- Trainers.
- Wanker.
- Hunky-Dory.
- Cheers.
- Bugger all.
- Bollocks.
- Bloody.
This doesn't mean angry or frustrated in the way Americans use it– rather, it means to be blind drunk.
Coming originally from Northern England, this word has recently entered the mainstream British slang and means 'nothing'.
This one is interesting and can be a bit confusing at first. In British slang, some people use the word "us" rather than 'me' when talking about themselves. For instance, instead of 'come with me', one might say 'come with us'.
Trainers are the American equivalent of "sneakers". If you think about it, it makes more sense– athletes train in shoes, they don't sneak.
Possibly the best single-worded British insult on the list, wanker fits closest by 'jerk' or 'a-hole'.
A fun little piece of British slang that means a situation is cool, okay, or normal. Related: 300 Words to Describe Yourself
While most people associate this word with a toast, it can also mean a quick 'thanks' or 'thank you'.
This is slang used for 'nothing at all'. When you've sat on the couch all day watching Netflix, you've done bugger all.
While it has a multitude of meanings, bullocks is most commonly used to describe dismay or disbelief.
You probably don't need a definition, as this is by far the most popular British slang. Historically, it was seen a cuss word– it's now so commonly used that it is generally acceptable.
This dictionary of British slang includes popular words and phrases that you might hear in the UK and will help you understand everyday English.
Aug 9, 2023 · British slang glossary | Slangpedia | The slang encycolopedia. Welcome to our comprehensive British slang glossary! Britain isn’t just about the Queen’s Guard and afternoon tea; it’s brimming with a rich tapestry of slang and expressions that might leave even the most adept linguists scratching their heads.
British slang is English-language slang originating from and used in the United Kingdom and also used to a limited extent in Anglophone countries such as India, Malaysia, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, especially by British expatriates. It is also used in the United States to a limited extent.
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Jan 9, 2024 · What is British slang? Slang isn’t just a bunch of jumbled words, it’s a unique part of the English language. Slang provides a creative way for people to express their emotions in casual conversations and is often used in films, TV shows and music. Plus, it’s always changing, so it keeps you on your toes! The history of British slang.
