47 British Slang Words And Phrases To Read Over A Cuppa
When people think of Britain we usually imagine a world of politeness and neat English, but did you know they have their own cool slang too? Shortening words and having language specific to your country or culture is common. So while you’re watching your favorite British show (we know you have one) you can stay on top of the slang and avoid missing a beat.
Many countries around the world speak English, but that doesn’t mean they all speak it the same way. Even the British themselves have variations in their use of slang. While some phrases are shared between England, Scotland and Wales – or even overlap with Irish slang – each country has its own fun vernacular, too. To break it down, we’ve compiled a list of British slang words and phrases that can be found all throughout the Isles, as well as exclusively in each country. Read on and see if you recognize any.
Looking for more British content? Check out our British lash names, Dr. Who quotes, and more.
General British Slang
Bloke
Meaning: A man.
Gutted
Meaning: Being heartbroken or upset over something.
Rank
Meaning: Disgusting.
Bevvy
Meaning: An alcoholic drink.
Snog
Meaning: A kiss or to kiss.
Baccy
Meaning: Tobacco.
Jammy
Meaning: To be lucky.
A Few Spanners Short
Meaning: To be dumb or not fully there.
Mug
Meaning: A fool or a gullible person.
Skive
Meaning: To skip school or work.
Minted
Meaning: Rich.
Away With The Fairies
Meaning: Used to describe someone who’s aloof or out of it.
Taking the biscuit
Meaning: Pushing your luck.
Daft
Meaning: A bit stupid or silly.
Paramount Pictures
Chuffed
Meaning: Thrilled or delighted.
Trolley
Meaning: Shopping cart.
Quid
Meaning: A British pound or money.
Pull A Blinder
Meaning: To pull off something excellently, but unexpectedly.
Arse Over Tit
Meaning: Falling over, usually in connection to being drunk.
Rat-arsed
Meaning: Very drunk.
Cuppa
Meaning: A cup of tea.
All To Pot
Meaning: This phrase means that things are getting out of control or something is completely failing. For example, “The wedding went all to pot when the groom was found behind the speakers with the bride’s sister.”
Blimey
Meaning: People typically say this word when they’re surprised or find something impressive or shocking.
English Slang
Cock Up
Meaning: To screw something up.
Barmy
Meaning: An adjective used to describe someone who is mad or odd.
Black Over Bill’s Mother
Meaning: Terrible weather.
Dosh
Meaning: Cash.
On The Raz
Meaning: Out on the town.
Frit
Meaning: Frightened.
Sprog
Meaning: A small child.
Scrummy
Meaning: Yummy.
Scottish Slang
Bahookey
Meaning: Backside.
Ah Dinnae Ken
Meaning: I don’t know.
Yer Bum’s Oot The Windae
Meaning: You’re full of it.
All His Eggs Are Double-Yoakit
Meaning: A way to describe a bullshitter.
Mad Wi’ It
Meaning: Drunk and having a great time.
Haud Yer Wheesht
Meaning: Shut your mouth.
Feart
Meaning: Afraid.
Bolt Ya Rocket
Meaning: Get the hell outta here.
FOX
Welsh Slang
Lush
Meaning: Something very nice or cool.
Cwtch
Meaning: Cuddle.
Tamping
Meaning: To be very angry or disgusted.
Bamps
Meaning: Grandfather.
Tidy
Meaning: Brilliant, fantastic, a good thing.
All The Threes
Meaning: Taxi.
Chopsing
Meaning: Arguing or trash-talking.
Daps
Meaning: A pair of sneakers.
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