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What does word to mean in New York slang?
Why is slang important in New York City?
What slang do New Yorkers use?
How many New York slang words are there?
What are some examples of NYC slang?
What does “word to” mean in New York City?
- Yerrr. I’d be a menace if I didn’t start this list with a hearty welcome. Yerrr is the call heard through the concrete jungles of the boroughs. Need to get someone’s attention?
- “ A minute” If you’ve never heard this phrase before, you’ll be surprised to know that it does not actually mean a minute at all. “a minute” means a very long time.
- Dub. This is one of those words that’s been around for a minute. For as long as I can remember, I have been saying the word dub in all its definitions.
- Bet. Bet is another classic. In this context, it is less about a wager and more about a done deal. “Bet” is short for “you bet”, allegedly popularized between drug dealers in Brooklyn and the Bronx in the ’80s.
Mar 13, 2024 · From the bustling streets of Brooklyn to the vibrant corners of Manhattan, NY slang is an essential part of the city's identity. This guide explores 45 common slang terms that capture the essence of New York, providing a transcription for each, along with descriptions and examples of their use in everyday life.
- Grill
- Brick
- Frontin’
- Kid/Son
- Ratchet
- Real Talk
- The City
- Mad
- Dead*Ss
- Schmear
This New York slang word means to stare at someone for a long period of time in an unrelenting way or to ask someone questionsin an accusatory way. “She kept grilling me while I was walking towards the train.”
When someone uses this word to describe the weather outside, it means the roads are icy and slushy and it is freezing in temperature. “Grab your coat! It’s brick outside.”
According to New Yorkers, when someone is pretending that they are better than they really are, they are frontin’. “Don’t be frontin’"
If a New Yorker calls you a “kid” or “son”, you should take it as a compliment. It means they see you as a close friend! “Hey kid, what you got going on tonight?” “Son, you gotta calm down.”
When New Yorkers call something or someone “ratchet” it’s not a good thing. This word usually refers to someone who doesn’t take care of themselves and has a filthy appearance. It could also be used to describe a place that is shabby and just looks really run down. “Don’t go there. I’ve heard the bathrooms are ratchet.” Related: Gen Z Slang
If you hear someone start a sentence with the words “real talk,” be prepared for a serious conversation. “It's time for real talk."
For local New Yorkers, the island of Manhattan is called “The City.” “You down to go to The City tonight?”
This New York slang word is different than your usual take on “mad.” In the hustling and bustling eastern city, this adjective is a New Yorker’s intensifying adverb of choice. “It’s mad delicious!”
When a New Yorker says they’re “dead*ss”, it means they’re completely and totally serious about something. “Dead*ss, I don't want to see him anymore.”
When you head to a deli, you may want to order a bagel with schmear. It’s a shorter way to say “a lot of cream cheese”! “I always start my mornings with an everything bagel and schmear. Don’t you?”
The local slang reflects the city's rich linguistic diversity and serves as a form of expression for its residents. In this section, we will delve into New York City slang, including its definition, origins, influences, and commonly used words and phrases.
- Bodega: It is one of the most iconic New York terms and refers to a neighborhood convenience store that often doubles as a gathering place for locals.
- Knockin’ It Out The Park: New Yorkers may use this phrase when something goes extremely well, often surprisingly or excitingly. It is an upbeat expression used to emphasize success or brilliance.
- Catch The Air: New Yorkers use this phrase to express surprise or shock. It can describe a person’s reaction to an unexpected event. For example, new Yorkers might say, “I almost caught the air when I heard that news!”
- Knish: This New York slang term refers to an ethnic food item – a pocket pastry filled with potatoes, cheese, kasha, and other ingredients. New Yorkers may use “knish” to refer to any small food item or even as a synonym for something else entirely.
Mar 18, 2024 · New York City slang is like a language of its own. You might already know some thanks to movies and pop culture, like the classic “how you doin’?” Read on to learn some of the most common New York City slang words and expressions, brought to you by an actual New Yorker!
Oct 11, 2024 · Mastering New York slang helps you blend in and understand the city's unique culture. Phrases like "deadass," "brick," and "mad" are just a few examples of how New Yorkers express themselves. Using these terms correctly can make conversations more engaging and authentic. Don't be afraid to practice.
