British slang has evolved immensely over the years, leading some words and phrases to fall out of favor with younger generations. These terms, once commonly used, now echo nostalgia for those over 60, so maybe it’s time that they make a comeback. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane with this list of British lingo that only us oldies remember.
Bob’s Your Uncle
An expression meaning “there you have it” or “it’s done,” this phrase is used when something is easily achieved or completed. It’s the equivalent of saying “all set” or “sorted.” The origins of this phrase are uncertain, although Suzanne Arnold claims it dates back to 1887. Either way, it’s still fondly remembered by older generations.
Chuffed to Bits
When older Brits feel extremely pleased or proud, “chuffed to bits” captures a sense of joy and satisfaction. It’s more than just being happy; it’s a genuine thrill about something special. Although it was once popular, younger Brits have largely replaced it with confusing expressions like “poggers” or “feeling lit.”
Doddle
If something is easy or straightforward, Boomer Brits might call it a “doddle.” This term describes tasks that require little effort, highlighting the simplicity of a situation. If you were feeling really fancy, you might choose to combine it with the previously mentioned “Bob’s your uncle.”
Throw a Wobbly
Here in the UK, we have all sorts of amusing slang for temper tantrums, such as having a “paddy” or, more commonly, “throwing a wobbly.” This phrase humorously describes losing one’s temper, often over something minor. While older generations still use it, younger people might say “freak out” or “lose it” instead.
Spend a Penny
A polite way of saying you need to use the toilet, “spend a penny,” comes from the days when public lavatories required a penny for entry. Though no longer in common use, this quaint phrase endures among those who remember a time when public conveniences weren’t always free.
Pear-Shaped
When something goes wrong or doesn’t go as planned, Brits might refer to it as things going “pear-shaped.” This phrase captures the idea of plans derailing or turning out badly, although we’re not quite sure why, as there’s nothing wrong with the shape of a pear in our eyes.
On the Blink
In the United Kingdom, if something isn’t working correctly or is malfunctioning, it’s “on the blink,” typically used for electronics or mechanical items. It’s a quirky way of saying something’s broken, but younger generations are more likely to just say it’s broken or needs fixing.
Bagsy
Every country has its own way of claiming something for itself, such as “calling dibs” or “shotgun,” and this is known as “bagsy” in British slang. Used mainly by children and older generations, it’s a fun way of marking your territory. However, younger people today are more likely to say the previously mentioned “shotgun” or “dibs,” which are Americanisms.
Codswallop
To describe something as nonsense or rubbish, you might call it “codswallop.” It’s a colorful way of dismissing something that’s untrue or ridiculous. This term has faded with time, replaced by simpler terms like “nonsense” or “rubbish.” To be honest, all of these phrases sound pretty old-fashioned compared to the vulgar words kids these days use.
Curtain Twitcher
Someone who is nosy or overly interested in their neighbors’ business is known as a “curtain twitcher,” or at least they were by the older generation of Brits. This phrase humorously depicts the act of peeking through the curtains to spy on others. It’s still understood today, but younger people might refer to such individuals as being simply nosy or gossipy.
Dog’s Dinner
If something or someone is overdressed or looks overly complicated, it’s described as looking like a “dog’s dinner.” This phrase implies that too much effort has been put into appearance without success. It’s not as commonly used now, but it still pops up among those over 60.
Fortnight
Believe it or not, not all countries use the term “fortnight”; in fact, it’s pretty much just us Brits. This means two weeks, or “fortnight,” which is a straightforward term that older generations still use. It’s not quite slang, but it has fallen out of everyday language among younger Brits who prefer saying “two weeks.” Despite this, “fortnight” remains a classic term that’s instantly recognized by most.
Knackered
When a Brit feels extremely tired, they might say they’re “knackered.” It’s an expressive way to convey exhaustion, often after a long day of hard work. Amusingly, the older generation is even more likely to say “Cream crackered” instead, which is a classic example of Cockney rhyming slang.
Naff
Something that’s tacky, uncool, or in poor taste might be called “naff” in the UK. It’s a dismissive term that suggests something isn’t up to standard or is a bit rubbish. Although “naff” was popular in the past, it’s rarely heard from younger generations, who might opt for American words like “lame,” which we think is sad.
Off One’s Trolley
If a British person describes another person as being “off their trolley,” it suggests they’re acting irrationally or are a bit mad. It’s a light-hearted way of saying someone’s behavior is out of the ordinary or eccentric.
Skive Off
Known in America as “playing hooky,” avoiding work or responsibilities by sneaking away is known as “skiving off” in the UK. It’s the act of dodging tasks or commitments, often to do something more enjoyable. Alternatively, one might say, “bunking off.”
Stone the Crows
One of the most uncommon phrases on this list is undoubtedly “Stone the crow,” which is an exclamation of surprise or disbelief. It’s a playful way of expressing shock, often in response to unexpected news. However, say this to a younger Brit today, and they’ll look at you with a puzzled expression.
Zonked
Lastly, when someone is completely worn out or exhausted, they might describe themselves as “zonked” in the UK. It’s a stronger way of saying tired, capturing a deeper level of fatigue. While still understood, it’s not as commonly used among younger generations, who tend to stick with simpler terms like “tired.”