British slang can be quite intriguing and sometimes confusing for those who are not familiar with it.
From phrases that may sound strange to entirely new words, British slang offers a rich and diverse lexicon. In this article, we’ll explore thirty British slang words and their meanings.
Understanding these will not only improve your vocabulary but also help you communicate more effectively when interacting with people from the UK.
What Is British Slang?
British slang comprises informal words and expressions that are commonly used by people in the United Kingdom.
These words can vary significantly by region and may seem unusual or amusing to non-Brits. British slang often reflects the cultural, social, and historical influences in the country.
List of British Slang Words
Let’s delve into some popular British slang words, arranged alphabetically, and learn what they truly mean.
Bloke
A “Bloke” is simply a man. It’s an informal way to refer to a person in general, much like the American term “guy.”
Bollocks
“Bollocks” can mean nonsense or rubbish. It’s often used to express disbelief or frustration. For example, “That’s absolute bollocks!”
Bugger
Often used to refer to a person who is slightly annoying or mischievous. “Bugger” can also be a term of endearment in a cheeky way.
Cheeky
“Cheeky” means to be a bit rude or disrespectful in an amusing or playful manner. For instance, “cheeky grin” or “cheeky monkey.”
Chuffed
If someone is “chuffed,” they are very pleased or happy about something. It’s a positive term denoting satisfaction.
Dodgy
Describes something or someone that is untrustworthy or of poor quality. For example, “a dodgy deal” or “a dodgy person.”
Gobsmacked
To be utterly astonished or amazed. If you hear something incredibly surprising, you might say, “I’m gobsmacked!”
Knackered
“Knackered” means extremely tired or exhausted. After a long day, someone might say, “I’m absolutely knackered.”
Legless
Describes someone who is extremely drunk. If someone has had too much to drink, they might be described as “legless.”
Loo
“Loo” is a common term for the toilet or bathroom. For example, “I need to use the loo.”
Mate
“Mate” is a term used to refer to a friend. It’s similar to “buddy” or “pal” in American English.
Naff
Something that is “naff” is unfashionable or not stylish. It’s often used to describe things that are outdated or tacky.
Nosh
Refers to food or a meal. If someone says, “Let’s grab some nosh,” they mean they want to eat something.
Peckish
Feeling slightly hungry. It’s a way to express the need for a small snack rather than a full meal.
Quid
“Quid” is slang for the British pound sterling. For instance, “That costs fifty quid.”
Rubbish
In British slang, “rubbish” means trash or garbage. It can also mean something that is poor in quality.
Shambolic
Something that is chaotic or disorganized. A “shambolic” situation is one that is in a state of disorder.
Skint
To be “skint” means to have no money or to be broke. If you’re low on cash, you might say, “I’m skint at the moment.”
Snog
To “snog” someone means to kiss them passionately. It’s often used in romantic contexts.
Sod
A mildly offensive term to refer to a person. It can also be used to express frustration, like “Oh, sod off!”
Sorted
When something is “sorted,” it means it has been dealt with or resolved. For instance, “Don’t worry, it’s all sorted now.”
Spot On
“Spot on” means exactly right or perfect. If something is “spot on,” it’s just right.
Ta
A casual way of saying thank you. “Ta” is often used in informal conversations.
Taking The Mickey
“Taking the mickey” means to mock or make fun of someone. It’s a playful way of teasing.
Tosser
An offensive term used to describe someone who is obnoxious or contemptible. It’s similar to calling someone a jerk.
Trollied
Someone who is “trollied” is very drunk. Similar to “legless,” it describes a state of extreme intoxication.
Whinge
To “whinge” means to complain or whine about something. It’s used to describe continuous complaining.
Wobbler
Throwing a “wobbler” means having a temper tantrum or an outburst. If someone is very upset, they might “throw a wobbler.”
Zonked
Being “zonked” means to be completely exhausted or tired out. Similar to feeling “knackered.”
Conclusion
British slang offers a colorful and varied vocabulary that can be both fun and perplexing to learn.
By familiarizing ourselves with these terms, we can better understand and appreciate the nuances of British English.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the UK or simply interested in expanding your language skills, these slang words are a great start.
FAQs
What Does “Bollocks” Mean?
“Bollocks” refers to nonsense or rubbish, often used to express disbelief or frustration.
How Is “Bloke” Used in a Sentence?
“Bloke” is used to refer to a man. For example, “He’s a nice bloke.”
What Does “Knackered” Mean?
“Knackered” means extremely tired or exhausted.
When Would You Use “Gobsmacked”?
“Gobsmacked” is used when you are utterly astonished or amazed.
What Is a “Loo”?
A “loo” is a common British term for the toilet or bathroom.
Who Would Be Called a “Mate”?
A “mate” is a friend, similar to “buddy” or “pal” in American English.
What Does “Skint” Mean?
“Skint” means to have no money or to be broke.
How Is “Snog” Used?
To “snog” someone means to kiss them passionately.
When Do You Say “Ta”?
“Ta” is a casual way of saying thank you.
What Is a “Tosser”?
A “tosser” is an offensive term used to describe someone who is obnoxious or contemptible.
