So, you want to sound like a proper Brit? Whether you’re preparing for a trip to the UK, trying to impress your British friends, or simply looking to expand your vocabulary, mastering British slang is the way to go. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of 17 essential British slang terms that will have you sounding like a native.
Knackered
Feeling utterly exhausted? Then you’re “knackered.” Dictionary.com reveals that “Knackered in the sense “exhausted” entered English in the 19th century,” and this term is used to express extreme tiredness, often after a long day or strenuous activity. For example, after a long hike or a particularly challenging day at work, you might collapse onto the sofa and proclaim, “I’m absolutely knackered!”.
Cheeky
“Cheeky” is a versatile term that Brits use to describe something that’s a bit naughty or irreverent but in a fun and charming way. If you take an extra biscuit when no one’s looking, you might call it a “cheeky biscuit”, or if you slip out for a pint during lunch, that’s a “cheeky pint.”
Gobsmacked
If something has left you completely astonished or speechless, you’re “gobsmacked.” This term combines “gob,” which is a slang word for mouth, and “smacked,” suggesting the feeling of being hit. So, if you’re stunned by surprising news or an incredible event, you can say, “I was gobsmacked!”
Dodgy
When something or someone seems suspicious or unreliable, it’s “dodgy.” This can apply to anything from a shady character to a questionable deal. For instance, if a stranger offers you a great deal on a new phone that seems too good to be true, you might think, “That sounds a bit dodgy.”
Chuffed
If you’re feeling pleased or proud, then you’re “chuffed.” This term is used to convey a sense of satisfaction and delight. If you’ve accomplished something you’re proud of, like passing an important exam or receiving a compliment, you can say it as a delightful way to express happiness and pride.
Bloke
“Bloke” is a casual term for a man, and it’s akin to calling someone a guy or a dude. You might hear someone say, “He’s a nice bloke,” meaning he’s a good guy, an informal and friendly way to refer to men that you’ll often hear in everyday conversation across the UK.
Nosh
Hungry? Then you’re looking for some “nosh,” a term that refers to food, often something hearty and satisfying. If someone offers you a plate of delicious homemade food, they might say, “Fancy some nosh?” as a warm and inviting way to talk about food.
Lurgy
When you’re feeling a bit under the weather, you might have the “lurgy.” This slang term is used to describe being ill, particularly with a cold or minor ailment. If you’re sneezing and coughing, you can say, “I think I’ve caught the lurgy.” It’s a light-hearted way to talk about feeling sick without sounding too serious.
Quid
“Quid” is the British slang for a pound sterling, the UK’s currency, much like how Americans use “buck” for a dollar. So, if something costs five pounds, you’d say, “That’s five quid.” It’s essential to know this term if you’re dealing with money in the UK, as it’s used frequently in everyday transactions.
Mate
An affectionate term for a friend, “mate,” is similar to calling someone a buddy or pal. You’ll hear Brits use this term to refer to their friends in a friendly and informal way, like, “How’s it going, mate?” It’s a warm and inclusive term that creates a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
Rubbish
When something is bad or of poor quality, it’s “rubbish,” and can refer to anything from a terrible movie to a faulty product. For example, if you watch a film that’s particularly disappointing, you might say, “That film was absolute rubbish.”
Gutted
If you’re feeling deeply disappointed or devastated, you’re “gutted,” used to express a strong sense of disappointment or heartbreak, such as when your favourite team loses an important match. It captures the intensity of feeling truly let down by something.
Sussed
When you’ve figured something out or realised the truth, you’ve “sussed” it. This term is often used to describe the act of solving a problem or understanding a situation. For example, if you’ve been trying to figure out how to fix your car and finally do, you might say, “I’ve sussed it out.”
Minging
If something is particularly unpleasant or disgusting, it’s “minging,” describing anything from a bad smell to an unattractive outfit. For instance, if you taste something that’s gone off, you might say, “That’s minging!” It’s a strong word for expressing disgust or revulsion.
Kip
Need a nap? Then you’re looking for a “kip.” This term refers to sleep, often a short or informal nap. If you’re feeling tired and need a quick rest, you might say, “I’m going to have a quick kip,” a casual and cosy way to talk about getting some shut-eye.
Skint
If you’re out of money, then you’re “skint,” a word used to describe being broke or having no cash. If you can’t go out because you’re low on funds, you might say, “I’m skint at the moment,” a straightforward way to explain that you’re financially strapped.
Fancy
One final slang term to remember is that to “fancy” something means to like or desire it. This term is often used to express interest in a person or thing. For example, when you find someone attractive, you might say, “I fancy her.” Or if you’re in the mood for a particular food, you could say, “I fancy some fish and chips.”
