British humour and language are full of quirks that often leave outsiders puzzled. However, we’re really proud of our unique expressions and idioms, which are an integral part of our charm. To remind you of all the funny things we say, here are 18 hilarious British phrases that only make sense to us.
Bob’s Your Uncle
As Merriam-Webster explains, the phrase “Bob’s your uncle” is commonly used among Brits to express that something is simple or easy to accomplish. It implies that success is guaranteed; for example, when someone says, “Just add the eggs, flour, and sugar, and Bob’s your uncle,” they mean the food they’re baking is nice and simple.
Taking the Mickey
Here in the UK, we love asking, “Are you taking the Mickey?” essentially asking if someone is making fun of us. It’s also commonly used as a light-hearted way to brush off banter, so if you’re not a Brit and someone tells you they’re “Only taking the Mickey”, you shouldn’t take their words too seriously.
Chuffed to Bits
When someone is extremely pleased or happy in the UK, they might say they are “chuffed to bits.” This expression conveys a high level of satisfaction and joy and is most often used to describe a sense of pride or accomplishment, such as when your favourite footy team wins a game.
Bits and Bobs
The British phrase “Bits and bobs” is a favourite among tourists, referring to various small items or miscellaneous things. When someone talks about having bits and bobs to do, they mean they have several small tasks or chores to complete, and everyone has a drawer in their kitchen that just contains a bunch of bits and bobs.
Knackered
When we Brits claim that we’re “feeling knackered”, it means we’re extremely tired or exhausted. Sometimes, it’s even twisted with a bit of Cockney slang, being said as “Cream crackered” instead, meaning exactly the same thing.
Gobsmacked
British phrases rarely mean what they sound like, so “gobsmacked” absolutely does not mean getting smacked in the gob (otherwise known as our mouth). Instead, it describes a state of astonishment or being completely surprised, so much so that they’re sharply putting their hand over their mouth.
Throwing a Wobbly
If someone is “throwing a wobbly”, this means having a tantrum or behaving erratically due to anger or frustration. It’s often used to describe someone who is overreacting or losing their temper over a minor issue or to describe a child who is in much need of some rest.
Pear Shaped
Any Brit knows that “things are going pear-shaped” means that they’ve taken a turn for the worse. Usually, it will be in reference to something not going according to plan. As an alternative, you could also say, “It’s all gone Pete Tong”, which is arguably even more bizarre.
Blimey
Everyone in the UK loves saying “Blimey!” as an exclamation of surprise or shock. It’s a mild swear word used to express amazement or disbelief, but you’re not going to offend anyone with it, not even your grandparents. In fact, the older generation of Brits love using the exclamation, often preceding it with “cor”, as in, “Cor, blimey!”
Brolly
Tourists are always confused when a Brit asks them if they have a “Brolly”, which, for some reason, we use to describe an umbrella. This informal term is widely recognised across the UK and is a staple in the vocabulary of anyone familiar with the British weather.
Cheeky
Another hilarious British phrase that only makes sense to us is “cheeky”, an adjective that can mean all sorts of things. Traditionally, it meant showing a lack of respect or politeness, but usually in a charming or humorous way. However, these days, we use it for all sorts of things, such as treating ourselves to a “Cheeky Nandos”.
Dodgy
Anyone who comes from the UK, especially England, knows that dodgy means something or someone is suspicious, unsafe, or of low quality. It’s used to describe things that are not quite right or trustworthy, so it could be used to describe a person, an alleyway, or even a cheap and temperamental piece of technology.
Cracking
Often used synonymously with “smashing”, “cracking” has nothing to do with breaking glass in Great Britain–on the contrary, it describes something excellent or impressive. It’s an enthusiastic way to commend or praise something, such as an event, a performance, a curry, or a piece of news.
Miffed
We love saying “miffed” in England; it’s yet another example of how we use silly, charming words to bring light to negative situations. It just means we’re slightly annoyed or irritated, and it’s rarely used to describe serious anger.
Naff
Yet another word that only Brits understand is “naff”, which describes something that is uncool, tacky, or lacking in style. It’s often used to critique fashion, decorations, or behaviour that is considered outdated or unattractive, generally expressing disapproval but with a touch of humour.
Skive
If you used to “skive” or “skive off” at primary or secondary school, it meant you didn’t bother turning up to class, usually “pulling a sickie” to relax at home. Amusingly, this phrase never really went away as we became adults because many people still skive off work today.
Ta
There’s no more charming phrase in the UK than “Ta”, which is a casual, albeit slightly old-fashioned way of saying thank you. It’s quick to say, informal, and a friendly expression of gratitude, and tourists love hearing and using it when they visit.
Zonked
If you’ve had a long day, not had enough sleep, or you’ve had one too many pints, you might tell someone that you’re feeling “zonked” or even “zonked out”. It just means that you’re completely exhausted, worn out, or out for the count; it’s very similar to being knackered but often implies a deeper level of tiredness.