I’ve grown up hearing British phrases. I think we all have in one way or another. We hear them on TV and in movies. People often say these random British phrases to sound cool or “cultured”. When I came to London, I had prepared to hear “I’m going on holiday” in the smooth British accent about 100 times. I knew if I wanted French fries, I’d have to ask for “chips”. I was excited to hear “lovely” and “brilliant.” What I didn’t realize was how British English and American English really are two different languages.
If I could tell you what “cheeky” meant, I would, but regarding this adjective, I’m just as lost as the next American. Honestly, I don’t even think the British know what “cheeky” really means. It could mean good. It could mean bad. We’ll never know! Just pay close attention to the tone that’s being used.
“Cheers!” This one I was a little more prepared for. However, I didn’t realize how often it’s used. You get somebody’s coffee. “Cheers!” You’re about to hang up the phone. “Cheers!” You hand a person a piece of paper. “Cheers!” Really, you could fit “cheers” into any conversation.
“Oh yeah, I spent like 20 quid.” Quid? What’s quid? I thought I was buying in pounds! Quid is basically the equivalent to “bucks” in American English. But when someone said “quid” for the first time, I was extremely confused, and honestly quite scared I didn’t know what currency I was using.
“Do you want any tea, coffee?” Okay so this one isn’t that odd, but if you’re planning on coming to England, best be prepared, you’ll be asked this question everywhere you go. Even if you already have a cup in your hand, you’re still going to be asked. Also don’t try to convince them to put cream in your hot drinks. It’s milk all the way.
Something that I’ve noticed the Brits do is use basic, straight-to-the-point language. Instead of asking for the restroom, they ask for the toilet. Literally, the signs to the restroom say “toilet.” I’m still a little nervous to use that one; I feel like I’m being impolite, but I guess if the Brits say it, I can. Also, the signs for the exit don’t say “exit.” Instead, they just say “Way Out.” How interesting is that?
“Eat in or take away?” You can probably figure this one out, but it was still odd to me at first. I’ve had to get used to saying “take away” instead of “to go.” Quick tip: some places are actually cheaper if you choose “take away.”
If you’re going to go to a university and you’re British, you’re going to call it “uni.” Short and sweet. I might actually steal that one.
I could go on and on about all the words and phrases the British say differently than Americans. It’s fun being in a different place and learning about different cultures, but I never really imagined that the English language could be so different in other places.
@TheChrony