As a Brit, you’ll know that there are certain things you shouldn’t say to Europeans or Americans, but what about us? There are plenty of annoying things that visitors say to us that drive us crazy. If you don’t know what we mean, here are 17 things you should never say to a British person.
Isn’t the Weather Always Terrible?
Though it’s true that the British love discussing the weather, calling it “always terrible” might not go down well. Weather in Britain is known for its unpredictability, but it’s not all gloom and rain. As Active England Tours claims, Brits enjoy up to 259 dry days a year and have their fair share of sunshine and variety, so it’s best not to dismiss their climate too hastily. Try to be more optimistic!
Why Don’t You Fix Your Teeth?
Brits absolutely hate it when tourists make comments about our dental aesthetics. The British are aware of stereotypes about their teeth, but they see this as an unnecessary, outdated jab. Bringing it up might make you seem tactless rather than humorous, so it’s best to steer clear of such personal remarks.
Are You from England or Britain?
This might seem like a harmless question, but it can come off as ignorant. The United Kingdom consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and each has its own distinct identity. Confusing the terms could unintentionally overlook someone’s cultural pride and heritage, so do your homework before visiting our country.
You Must Love the Queen
It’s ridiculous to assume that everyone in Britain is a royalist. While many (mainly the older generation) have deep respect for the monarchy, others might be indifferent or even opposed to it. Assuming everyone loves the Queen can lead to an uncomfortable conversation, so it’s wiser to approach this topic with caution.
Tea Is Just Hot Water, Right?
Everyone knows that tea is a big deal in Britain, and it’s not just about the beverage itself but the ritual around it. So, calling it “just hot water” ignores its cultural significance, and after all, that’s a completely false statement. All we can say is that if your tea tastes just like hot water, you clearly don’t know how to knock up a proper brew.
Why Are You So Polite?
While British politeness is often celebrated, pointing it out can feel condescending. Many Brits pride themselves on good manners, but they don’t necessarily see it as something extraordinary. Highlighting it might make the conversation awkward as if you’re treating their behavior as unusual or some sort of dehumanized tourist attraction.
Do You Know the Royal Family?
Britain is home to millions of people, so the odds of a person personally knowing the Royal Family are ridiculously slim. Despite this, tourists love asking us this question, and it drives us mental. It comes across as naïve and even a bit silly, so try to remember that most Brits have as much contact with royalty as anyone else in the world.
Do You Still Eat Fish and Chips Every Day?
There’s no denying that fish and chips are iconic, but they are far from being a daily staple for most Brits. As a result, this question can seem stereotypical and outdated. British cuisine is diverse, with people enjoying a wide range of foods, and assuming they’re stuck in culinary habits from decades past doesn’t reflect reality.
How Can You Stand Driving on the Left?
For Brits, driving on the left is just the way it’s done, and they’re quite used to it, so questioning how they “stand” it implies that it’s somehow inferior or difficult, which isn’t the case. It’s simply a matter of perspective and what one is accustomed to.
Isn’t British Food Bland?
This comment could be seen as very dismissive and uninformed because it’s just not true. British cuisine has evolved significantly over recent years, with a wide variety of flavors and dishes influenced by global cultures. Calling it bland ignores this diversity and can be perceived as an unfair generalization about their culinary traditions; don’t hate beans on toast either, at least until you try it!
Do You All Live in Castles?
Another thing you should never say to us Brits is the question, “Do you all live in castles?” You’d be surprised at how common this question is, which is generally more amusing than offensive, but it does carry a sense of naivety. While Britain has a rich history filled with castles and grand estates, most Brits live in modern homes like anyone else – duh.
Can You Explain Cockney Rhyming Slang?
A lot of foreigners love asking Brits to explain Cockney rhyming slang, but frankly, it’s not something most Brits use regularly or even fully understand. Asking someone to explain it might put them on the spot; at the end of the day, it’s a fun linguistic curiosity, so let’s just leave it at that.
Why Don’t You Just Use Dollars?
Perhaps the most idiotic question on this list, asking why Brits don’t use dollars, will no doubt come off as culturally insensitive. The British pound is a source of national pride, and the idea of replacing it with another currency might not sit well. It’s best to avoid questioning the use of a country’s currency, as it can be a touchy subject. Anyway, why would we share a currency with a country that’s so far away from us?
Why Are You So Obsessed with History?
It’s true that the British are proud of their history, but implying it’s an obsession can sound dismissive. The country’s rich past is a significant part of its identity, and many people take pride in preserving and celebrating it. Suggesting it’s overdone might not be well received; can you really be too proud of your heritage?
Why Do You All Have Stiff Upper Lips?
The “stiff upper lip” stereotype, suggesting Brits don’t show emotions, can feel outdated and oversimplified. While stoicism is sometimes valued here, British people experience and express emotions like anyone else. As a result, bringing up this stereotype might come across as an attempt to pigeonhole their character.
Is Your House Like Downton Abbey?
Frustratingly, popular British period dramas such as Downton Abbey have led a lot of foreigners to assume that Brits all live in mansions and manor houses. Assuming someone’s home resembles a grand estate from a TV is just absurd; obviously, most Brits live in contemporary homes, and the Downton Abbey lifestyle is far removed from their daily experience.
What’s It Like Living in the Past?
Finally, a lot of people seem to find it amusing to ask us why Britain is stuck in the past, which is both insulting and inaccurate. The country has a long history, but it’s also a modern, forward-thinking nation. Implied criticism of their connection to history might not sit well and can easily lead to a frosty conversation, so try not to be so ignorant.