British phrases are a fascinating part of the English language, but some expressions can be irritating to people from other parts of the world. Quirky idioms and peculiar slang can leave non-Brits scratching their heads. Let’s explore 18 British phrases that might drive you up the wall if you’re not from the UK.
“Taking the mickey”
According to Merriam-Webster, “Taking the Mickey” means to make fun of someone, but outside the UK, it often leaves people bewildered. People might wonder who Mickey is and why he’s being taken. The playful nature of this idiom is lost on those unfamiliar with British humour, making it a source of annoyance rather than amusement.
“Cheers”
To many Brits, “cheers” is a versatile word used to mean “thank you,” “goodbye,” or “you’re welcome.” However, for those outside the UK, it can be confusing. People often associate “cheers” solely with toasting drinks, so when a Brit says “cheers” instead of “thanks,” it can feel odd and out of place.
“Fancy a cuppa?”
This charming invitation for a cup of tea can puzzle non-UK residents, as the word “fancy” used as a verb might seem odd, and “cuppa” is a uniquely British contraction. While it’s a warm offer, it can be annoying to those who aren’t accustomed to British tea culture. In many places, the straightforward “Would you like some tea?” would suffice.
“Chuffed to bits”
When people from Britain say they’re “chuffed to bits,” they mean they’re very pleased or happy. However, to foreigners, this expression can sound odd and overly complicated. The word “chuffed” is rarely used outside the UK, and the addition of “to bits” seems like unnecessary embellishment.
“Bob’s your uncle”
The phrase “Bob’s your uncle” means “and there you have it” or “it’s as simple as that,” but it can be utterly baffling to those from other countries. The randomness of invoking an imaginary uncle named Bob to signify simplicity can be quite frustrating, and people outside the UK often feel this phrase is too convoluted for everyday conversation.
“It’s not my cup of tea”
An idiom that means something is not to your liking is “it’s not my cup of tea.” While it’s charmingly British, it can be irksome to non-natives who are unfamiliar with the deep cultural connection to tea. People often prefer more direct expressions like “I don’t like it” or “It’s not for me.”
“Gobsmacked”
If you’re “gobsmacked,” you are extremely surprised—at least, you are if you’re from England. This term can sound harsh and somewhat vulgar to those outside the country. The word “gob” (slang for mouth) is not widely used, making the expression sound strange and even unpleasant.
“Bloody”
Frequently used in British English as an intensifier, similar to “very,” “bloody” is often used by locals within the UK. However, to others, it can be perceived as mildly offensive or plain unnecessary. Non-Brits often find the overuse of “bloody” annoying, as it can make conversations sound more aggressive than intended.
“Knackered”
To be “knackered” means to be extremely tired, and while it’s a common phrase in the UK, it can be annoying to those unfamiliar with it. The word itself sounds rough and can be off-putting. Non-Brits might prefer simpler expressions like “exhausted” or “worn out” instead.
“Sorted”
When British folks say something is “sorted,” they mean it has been taken care of or resolved. This can be confusing and frustrating for non-native speakers, who might not understand its context immediately. The abruptness of “sorted” can make it sound dismissive.
“B*llocks”
Used to express disbelief or annoyance, “b*llocks” is a word that can be quite jarring to anyone from another country, and it has a crude undertone. It isn’t as commonly used in polite conversation outside the UK, so people from other parts of the world might prefer more neutral expressions.
“Brilliant”
Within the UK, “brilliant” is used to describe something excellent or wonderful—but the confusing thing is that it can also be used sarcastically by the British to describe something that most definitely isn’t brilliant. In many places, “brilliant” is reserved for truly outstanding things, so hearing it used for everyday occurrences can be grating.
“Lurgy”
When English people talk about having “the lurgy,” they mean they’re feeling unwell or have a minor illness. This term is practically unknown outside the UK, leaving non-Brits bewildered and annoyed. The odd sound of “lurgy” and its lack of clear meaning can make it an unwelcome addition to any conversation.
“Ta”
“Ta” is a casual way of saying “thank you, but it can sound too informal and even rude to anyone not accustomed to it. This short, abrupt word lacks the warmth of a full “thank you” and can be irritating to those who value polite and clear expressions of gratitude.
“Give us a bell”
If a person from Britain asks you to “give us a bell,” they mean to give them a phone call, which might be more than a little confusing to anyone who isn’t a native. The use of “bell” instead of “call” can seem impractical, causing frustration in trying to work out the meaning.
“Skive off”
To “skive off” means to avoid work or school. This phrase can be perplexing and irritating to non-Brits, who might not immediately understand its meaning. The informal and somewhat sneaky connotation of “skive” makes it less appealing and more annoying than simply saying “skip.”
“Bits and bobs”
If a local from England mentions “bits and bobs,” they’re talking about various small items or pieces, which might be a long stretch for a foreigner. The use of “bobs” instead of a more straightforward word can be annoying and make conversations feel unnecessarily convoluted, as even just saying “bits” would make more sense.
“Spend a penny”
One final annoying phrase to everyone but the British is “spend a penny,” a polite way to say that you need to use the toilet. The saying dates back to when public toilets required a penny for entry, but this context is lost on many people outside the UK.
