Knob
Wanker
Uni
Mum
Brilliant!
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Knob
Wanker
Uni
Mum
Brilliant!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 412 | 13 hours ago |
Whilst
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 1 | 03/27/2021 |
Guv'n.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 2 | 03/27/2021 |
Favour, flavour, colour
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 3 | 03/27/2021 |
arse
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 4 | 03/27/2021 |
jab as in COVID
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 5 | 03/27/2021 |
antidisestablishmentarianism
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 6 | 03/27/2021 |
Watah (water)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 7 | 03/27/2021 |
OP is a TWAT
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 8 | 03/27/2021 |
Cunt, used as a term of endearment.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 9 | 03/27/2021 |
That'll be eight bob to you guvnor.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 10 | 03/27/2021 |
Wrong OP.
Because of the prevalence of Brits in the EU many english speakers in other countries use those same terms, you sodding wanker.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 11 | 03/27/2021 |
Dickhead.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 12 | 03/27/2021 |
Poppycock!
Innit!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 13 | 03/27/2021 |
Lift
Flat
Pub
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 14 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote] Because of the prevalence of Brits in the EU
Not anymore.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 15 | 03/27/2021 |
Whinge
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 16 | 03/27/2021 |
antidisestablishmentarianistically
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 17 | 03/27/2021 |
referring to cake as "pudding".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 18 | 03/27/2021 |
attend university
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 19 | 03/27/2021 |
go to hospital
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 20 | 03/27/2021 |
r19 and referring to it as "uni".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 21 | 03/27/2021 |
attend uni
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 22 | 03/27/2021 |
A&E; stretcher; courgette; binbag;
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 23 | 03/27/2021 |
Smeghead
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 24 | 03/27/2021 |
bellend
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 25 | 03/27/2021 |
Bob’s your uncle.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 26 | 03/27/2021 |
In fairness, I'll sometimes use these, but I'm just being pretentious.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 27 | 03/27/2021 |
“at” the weekend
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 28 | 03/27/2021 |
Bob's your uncle; "The origins are uncertain, but a common theory is that the expression arose after Conservative Prime Minister Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, 3rd Marquess of Salisbury ("Bob") appointed his nephew Arthur Balfour as Chief Secretary for Ireland in 1887, an act of nepotism, which was apparently both surprising and unpopular. Whatever other qualifications Balfour might have had, "Bob's your uncle" was seen as the conclusive one."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 29 | 03/27/2021 |
Maths; arithmetic
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 30 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote]“at” the weekend
Is that like "an" Only Fans?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 31 | 03/27/2021 |
Lift instead of elevator
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 32 | 03/27/2021 |
Quite right.
Put a foot wrong.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 33 | 03/27/2021 |
Jacket potato
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 35 | 03/27/2021 |
To me the weirdest: using plural verb forms for collective nouns or corporations:
"Do you know what the government do with the unemployed?"
Ford are planning an announcement".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 37 | 03/27/2021 |
"Math" in the plural, "I'm not good at maths".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 38 | 03/27/2021 |
Calling Ford 'a firm' and worse, calling it Ford's
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 39 | 03/27/2021 |
That car has a large BOOT and a long BONNET.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 40 | 03/27/2021 |
Why are fools like OP unable to distinguish between England and Britain?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 41 | 03/27/2021 |
R37 -- that is a weird once. Brits don't seem to understand the difference between singular vs plural.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 42 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote] The words that give away that a poster is actually British
Bri-ish.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 43 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote] that is a weird once
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 44 | 03/27/2021 |
Oh dear R42
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 45 | 03/27/2021 |
Oi oi!
takeaway/kebab.
brilliant jumper!
put on your wellies, it's pouring out there.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 46 | 03/27/2021 |
Cheers mate!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 47 | 03/27/2021 |
Vicar.
Charity shop instead of thrift store.
Biscuits and chips which are anything but what they claim to be.
Crisps and candy floss sound stupid.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 48 | 03/27/2021 |
he's class!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 49 | 03/27/2021 |
go to the "loo"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 50 | 03/27/2021 |
What are you on about.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 52 | 03/27/2021 |
FATHER CHRISTMAS instead of
Santa Claus
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 53 | 03/27/2021 |
TAKE AWAY instead of Take out.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 54 | 03/27/2021 |
BLOODY HELL!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 55 | 03/27/2021 |
I'm watching footy on the telly.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 56 | 03/27/2021 |
Bloody Nora; blimey
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 57 | 03/27/2021 |
Petrol
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 58 | 03/27/2021 |
Some of you are not reading the thread.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 59 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote]Charity shop instead of thrift store.
Charity shops tend to be high street based where people just dump their clear out stuff in the doorway over night, like Granny Mary's golliwog salt and pepper cruet set, the Friends series 1 box set on VHS or a bag of shoes which may or may not have matching sets in it.
Thrift stores, also known as vintage stores, specialise in second hand clothing and accessories. Some thrift shops will buy second hand clothes and resell.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 60 | 03/27/2021 |
"pins" for legs
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 61 | 03/27/2021 |
CARE HOME instead of Nursing Home
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 62 | 03/27/2021 |
An "off-license" instead of a liquor store.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 63 | 03/27/2021 |
Porridge
"Teef" (If they have any left)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 64 | 03/27/2021 |
Oh dear R63. That's 'off-licence'. FIFY
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 65 | 03/27/2021 |
Hob
AGA
Hoover (as a verb)
council estate
Eton Mess
caster sugar
Muscovado sugar
self-raising flour
tray bakes
fairy cakes
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 66 | 03/27/2021 |
petrol
car park
block of flats
lorry
estate car
waistcoat
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 67 | 03/27/2021 |
Taking the piss.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 68 | 03/27/2021 |
Pip pip
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 69 | 03/27/2021 |
Bob’s your uncle
Sweets
Kerfuffle
Chuffed
Blimey
Cock-up
Miffed
Hunky-dory
Anticlockwise
Dressing gown
Candy floss
Knackered
Cuppa
Gutted
Primary school
Skipping Rope
Gobby
Gobsmacked
Off-licence
Coriander
Noughts and crosses
Pavement
Postbox
Aubergine
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 70 | 03/27/2021 |
“Bum” for butt. Although I use it as well because I’m Canadian.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 71 | 03/27/2021 |
git, piss-off, sorted, telly, the train
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 72 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote] the train
?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 73 | 03/27/2021 |
"Paddy" - Brits use that to refer to trains; it's based on the most famous train station in all the land: Paddington.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 74 | 03/27/2021 |
Tay-coh for taco.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 75 | 03/27/2021 |
capsicum
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 76 | 03/27/2021 |
dentist, but in question form, i.e., "dentist????"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 77 | 03/27/2021 |
R3 - that could also be a Canadian.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 78 | 03/27/2021 |
meek-ro-wah-vay
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 79 | 03/27/2021 |
Ring me on my mobile.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 80 | 03/27/2021 |
Tickety-boo!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 81 | 03/27/2021 |
Courgettes
Swedes (for rutabagas, not people from Stockholm)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 82 | 03/27/2021 |
"Slut", but with a British accent
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 83 | 03/27/2021 |
Saying “you need to go to Specsavers” when they think you have bad visual taste
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 84 | 03/27/2021 |
Referring to molasses as treacle and eggplant as aubergine
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 85 | 03/27/2021 |
Ginger.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 86 | 03/27/2021 |
Bugger, sod, cottaging, spunk.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 87 | 03/27/2021 |
toss off are you off your head!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 88 | 03/27/2021 |
Krikey! Oh, wait. Blimey!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 89 | 03/27/2021 |
Vest for undershirt
And singlet for tank top
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 90 | 03/27/2021 |
“Me ass” as in “that bloke fucked me ass”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 91 | 03/27/2021 |
rubbers
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 92 | 03/27/2021 |
Rubbish bin - garbage can
Bin it - throw it out
Bank Holiday - no US equivalent but usually the Monday of a three day weekend.
Finalise and Realise
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 93 | 03/27/2021 |
rubber as in eraser
theatre
spectre
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 94 | 03/27/2021 |
have you got a ciggy?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 95 | 03/27/2021 |
Someone here said "uni" is also Canadian.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 96 | 03/27/2021 |
Got to have a slash
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 97 | 03/27/2021 |
beetroot
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 98 | 03/27/2021 |
OP is a bonkers, fat, yob plonker twat.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 99 | 03/27/2021 |
r99 - "twat" is pronounced in the same way you pronounce "hat"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 100 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote]Charity shops tend to be high street based
High street.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 101 | 03/27/2021 |
Love (as a term of endearment)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 102 | 03/27/2021 |
right nice geyser, 'e is!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 103 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote] Love (as a term of endearment)
Luv.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 104 | 03/27/2021 |
Sussed
Manky (Scottish)
Sorted
A bit good
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 105 | 03/27/2021 |
hospital...not the hospital
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 106 | 03/27/2021 |
bloody, rubbish, wank. arse
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 107 | 03/27/2021 |
Hotsie totsie
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 108 | 03/27/2021 |
I've heard the expression "flicking my bean" a few too many times from Brits.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 109 | 03/27/2021 |
"I fancy that lovely bloke, do you think he might fancy the likes of me?"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 110 | 03/27/2021 |
i knocked up some pasta - care for a bit?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 111 | 03/27/2021 |
Spaz
Joey Deacon
Klan Granny
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 112 | 03/27/2021 |
Ah-loo-min-ee-um
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 113 | 03/27/2021 |
Umbrella -- brolly Sweatshirt -- jumper
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 114 | 03/27/2021 |
OP is a daft knobhead.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 115 | 03/27/2021 |
FUGTASTIC
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 116 | 03/27/2021 |
I have an American friend who insists on saying “jab” and I want to push her into a volcano every time she does. She also says “go to hospital.”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 117 | 03/27/2021 |
OP is making a right arse of himself.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 118 | 03/27/2021 |
Using "s" instead of "z" on words like "analyse" vs. "analyze."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 119 | 03/27/2021 |
Pants for underpants.
Pants meaning worthless etc.
Sink estate.
Knickers.
Matron as in Carry On Matron.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 120 | 03/27/2021 |
cheeky snog
banter
gutted
cracking
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 121 | 03/27/2021 |
smashing!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 122 | 03/27/2021 |
fanny for vagina
naughty bits for cock and balls
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 123 | 03/27/2021 |
Markle and Harry are pieces of shit.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 124 | 03/27/2021 |
You dumb fucks don’t realise that it is Americans who can’t speak the language - pretty much any native English speaker anywhere else uses these words and expressions. It’s you Americans who are responsible for an ongoing assault on the English language.
Which is why we all laugh at you.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 125 | 03/27/2021 |
Buck’s Fizz
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 126 | 03/27/2021 |
Nowt
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 127 | 03/27/2021 |
"Which is why we all laugh at you."
The English do enjoy a good titter.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 128 | 03/27/2021 |
mum
fank you
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 129 | 03/27/2021 |
Nappies
Mash
Bakewell
Speciality
Bicarb (for baking soda)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 130 | 03/27/2021 |
Watching a British design/renovation show.
"Ma-CRAH-may" - Macrame
"Tar-PAUL-in" - Tarp
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 131 | 03/27/2021 |
some people on this thread have been watching far too much Great British Bakeoff
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 132 | 03/27/2021 |
R128 Touché
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 133 | 03/27/2021 |
faggots
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 134 | 03/27/2021 |
Stupid thread, OP. We learn English from the Brits in Europe so we use their vocabulary as well. As do other English-speaking countries of the world
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 135 | 03/27/2021 |
Frock!
Yesterday one of the crazy rightwing American ladies who pretends to be British on the trans, Meghan Markle, and race-baiting threads used "frock" and "sodding" about 400 times in one thread, and then some sockpuppet made sure to call her and her friends "the boys" so we would all totally believe they were Brit gays.
The trolls are so convincing this time of year.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 136 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote]You dumb fucks don’t realise that it is Americans who can’t speak the language
I like how r125 got super upset, just because he didn't catch the reference to "My Fair Lady."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 137 | 03/27/2021 |
al-ewe-min-ee-um *** aluminum
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 138 | 03/27/2021 |
[quote] You dumb fucks don’t realise that it is Americans who can’t speak the language
Tail’s wagging the dog now, innit?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 139 | 03/27/2021 |
R139 - “innit”? I don’t use that word, but then, I’m not English.
Of course, being American, you assume that I am.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 140 | 03/27/2021 |
What do Americans say when they go to hospital? Do you say you're going to THE hospital? Can anyone please clarify.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 141 | 03/28/2021 |
R15 yes.
Most countries have made provisions for them to stay . Germany has even offered citizenship.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 142 | 03/28/2021 |
I've been accused of being British, European, Canadian, and Russian. DL detectives suck.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 143 | 03/28/2021 |
Why do Americans get so humpty about Britishisms?
Unless they never left their trailer park at the mouth of the old Turkey Knob Mines, they know exactly what OPs list of words mean. It's no trickier than if I said, "That was very clever/ingenious/resourceful of you". Or if someone mispronounced "dissect." No pausing, no thinking, no contemplation of nuanced meaning required.
Yet they will call out a jab, or a uni, or a dust bin as though it were the most irritating, insulting, ridiculous thing they ever heard.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 144 | 03/28/2021 |
Going to the clubs so I'm going to get all tarted up
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 145 | 03/28/2021 |
Frogs (cf. rosbifs).
OAP.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 146 | 03/28/2021 |
R144, neither OP nor anyone else on this thread said Americans didn't know what the Brit words mean, he just said they reveal the poster is British.
And yes, R141, Americans say going to THE hospital, same as going to the store, the park, etc.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 147 | 03/28/2021 |
R144- These things ANNOY us, as does the fact that you Brits drive on the WRONG side of the road.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 148 | 03/28/2021 |
I'm quite aware R147, and yet, still, there you have it, my indirect response on OP's thread.
I'll know to ask you first next time.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 149 | 03/28/2021 |
"18 certificate movie"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 150 | 03/28/2021 |
Sponge = cake
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 151 | 03/28/2021 |
Road signs - GIVE WAY instead of Yield.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 152 | 03/28/2021 |
Instead of being Fired from his job he was made REDUNDANT.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 153 | 03/28/2021 |
FIZZY drinks instead of Soda.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 154 | 03/28/2021 |
[quote]And yes, [R141], Americans say going to THE hospital, same as going to the store, the park, etc.
But we say "going to school," "going to work," etc., without the definite article.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 155 | 03/28/2021 |
drinks party
hen party
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 156 | 03/28/2021 |
"took a punt" (took a chance)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 157 | 03/28/2021 |
Twat....or is it twat?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 158 | 03/28/2021 |
And of course:
Yanks!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 159 | 03/28/2021 |
She’s up the duff mate
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 160 | 03/28/2021 |
Hey R144, as mentioned above, you missed the point of this thread. I was asking for ways we Americans can tell when it's a Brit who's posting by his choice of words. That's all. A bit of detective work.
What is it you funny little people say? Don't get your knickers in a twist, right-o, cheers.... whatever....
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 161 | 03/28/2021 |
[quote]"took a punt" (took a chance)
Also "punters." I've never been quite sure what that meant.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 162 | 03/28/2021 |
"meant to" instead of "supposed to"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 163 | 03/28/2021 |
This treacle tart is SMASHING.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 164 | 03/28/2021 |
Arse for Ass
The Chemists for Drugstore
Placing "The" in front of country names as in The Argentine , The Ukraine
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 165 | 03/28/2021 |
THE United States
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 166 | 03/28/2021 |
We’ll get a pretty penny for that one on the human black market we will!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 167 | 03/28/2021 |
Mind your head!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 168 | 03/28/2021 |
i’ve got the most scathingly brilliant idea
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 169 | 03/28/2021 |
Gosh, that must’ve been too ghastly!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 170 | 03/28/2021 |
it's a bit shit, if i'm being honest
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 171 | 03/28/2021 |
I was sat down at the pub.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 172 | 03/28/2021 |
I’m eating me tea!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 173 | 03/28/2021 |
Let’s go around YOURS and do a CURRY for TEA.
(Grew up in a former colony so I do tend to use some of those words/phrases/pronunciations). Wouldn’t the USA be considered a former colony as well? 🤔🤔
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 174 | 03/28/2021 |
"Fancy tea at MINE?"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 175 | 03/28/2021 |
Would you prefer crisps or chips? Don't be cheeky!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 176 | 03/28/2021 |
University instead of college
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 177 | 03/28/2021 |
Uni, -ou, paki, fag (referring to cigarettes), BAME, xx or x after a sentence, furloughed.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 178 | 03/28/2021 |
telly
celly
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 179 | 03/28/2021 |
I’m just taking the piss out of you.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 180 | 03/28/2021 |
Everything Americans say started in the UK FIRST, Americans just kept it and the Brits are the ones that changed. The brits use to eat the same as Americans do, switching hands, then they switched to the continental way. And dont even start about soccer vs football, typical shitty convoluted British way, then bitch about the way Americans say it. Cunts!!!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 181 | 03/28/2021 |
Ugggh god I despise the English and their outdated monarchy and Royal watching.. I refuse to watch English films anymore. They’re useless and boring. And of course they’re ugly with bad teeth. That cliche is 90% accurate.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 182 | 03/28/2021 |
Everything the Americans say the Brits said it first then THEY changed and proceeded to ridicule Americans for it, typical British passive aggressive cunts. They even used to eat by switching hands then they changed to continental style. And dont even start on soccer vs football, another typical convoluted British shitty thing.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 183 | 03/28/2021 |
Everything the Americans say the Brits said it first then THEY changed and proceeded to ridicule Americans for it, typical British passive aggressive cunts. They even used to eat by switching hands then they changed to continental style. And dont even start on soccer vs football, another typical convoluted British shitty thing.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 184 | 03/28/2021 |
Everything the Americans say the Brits said it first then THEY changed and proceeded to ridicule Americans for it, typical British passive aggressive cunts. They even used to eat by switching hands then they changed to continental style. And dont even start on soccer vs football, another typical convoluted British shitty thing.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 185 | 03/28/2021 |
chavs
bloke
mate
have a lie-down
bedsit (I still don't know what that means)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 186 | 03/28/2021 |
R181 “the brits use to”.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 187 | 03/28/2021 |
Squiffy!
Context: I only had a small glass of Jeremy's home brew and god almightly I don't half feel squiffy!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 188 | 03/28/2021 |
Keep banging on about something
Bell me
Hasn’t a patch on her
A bit of alright
Really rubbish at doing this
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 189 | 03/28/2021 |
[quote] [R139] - “innit”? I don’t use that word, but then, I’m not English.
[quote]Of course, being American, you assume that I am.
You didn’t need to be British for my retort to work, you mentally slow person.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 190 | 03/28/2021 |
Also only a Brit would say... Chim Chim Cheroo !
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 191 | 03/28/2021 |
The one that drives me crazy is "cuppa."
WTF?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 192 | 03/28/2021 |
R192 do you want a cuppa tea me luv? How ‘bout some biscuits to go with that? I’ve been saving me favorite clotted cream to go with your scones.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 193 | 03/28/2021 |
Boris is just using this thread to better disguise himself as an American for his consummate, right-wing propaganda posts.
Stop giving him tips. If he wants to learn to imitate Americans, he can do his own research for years. Let his mask keep slipping in DL posts, it's always hilarious to catch him in fraud.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 194 | 03/28/2021 |
R190 Oh “Bootsy” you never fail to deliver.
At being a silly twat.
Now there’s a Britishism for you, “Bootsy”.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 195 | 03/28/2021 |
“Shiver me timbers!”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 196 | 03/28/2021 |
Garibaldis
Jammy Dodgers
Jaffa Cakes
Spotted Dick
Haggis
Christmas Pudding
Ice Lollies
Kippers
Brown sauce
Bovril
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 197 | 03/28/2021 |
r197 = fan of British cooking shows
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 198 | 03/28/2021 |
Dozy sod.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 199 | 03/28/2021 |
Hi I'm Benedict Cumberbunch.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 200 | 03/28/2021 |
loo, fag
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 201 | 03/28/2021 |
What shade of brown will your baby be?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 202 | 03/28/2021 |
Most DLers are right slappers
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 203 | 03/29/2021 |
OP is right common
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 204 | 03/29/2021 |
Words aren't the only way to tell whether you're dealing with a Brit or an American. See if you can generate some steam:
-- Express support for the wrong football club.
-- Say something nice about Margaret Thatcher. Or Tony Blair.
-- Remind everyone who really beat the Germans.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 205 | 03/29/2021 |
Sod off!
Chelsea buns
Jam roly-poly
Elevenses
Stork (not the bird)
Panto
Stalls (in a theatre)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 206 | 03/29/2021 |
Train driver for the train engineer.
Engineer for the guy who comes to fix the geyser.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 207 | 03/29/2021 |
Spot on
corner store
chav
pissed (meaning drunk)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 208 | 03/29/2021 |
LOL@ R202
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 209 | 03/29/2021 |
[quote]corner store
Literally nobody in Britain has ever said Corner Store.
It's Corner SHOP.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 210 | 03/29/2021 |
R162 it means customers.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 211 | 03/29/2021 |
Skint for penurious.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 212 | 03/29/2021 |
Google’s definition of the word Punter;
noun, British, informal
a person who gambles, places a bet, or makes a risky investment.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 213 | 03/29/2021 |
R213 'punter' can also mean customer. It's a slang term. A prostitute will refer to her 'johns' as 'punters'.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 214 | 03/29/2021 |
I thought punters were public house patrons.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 215 | 03/29/2021 |
I've had many a British gentleman offer to knock me up but all they've done is come by for a visit.
They could have at least tried.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 216 | 03/29/2021 |
Bed sit is a SRO
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 217 | 03/29/2021 |
Scally
Cow
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 218 | 03/29/2021 |
'Punters' are indeed primarily those who place bets - but also as has been said, more broadly ticket-buyers or consumers of any sort. As in, 'It can't lose, the punters will love it.'
Sometimes a 'dodgy' (Brit word) enterprise will be set up to claim 'mug punters.' A scam. Which blends back to the main meaning in that mug punters are taking a silly gamble, an unwise risk.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 219 | 03/29/2021 |
Scrolled through the whole thing, no one mentioned:
Posh
Common (as a class identifier)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 220 | 03/29/2021 |
Bespoke. On British design shows they always mention bespoke pieces of furniture or decoration which I'm assuming means custom.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 221 | 03/29/2021 |
R221 -- The word bespoke is just as common in America as it is in Britain. It's a class thing, not a Brit thing. My rich male friends always have bespoke suits, usually made when they're in Hong Kong where bespoke is cheap.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 222 | 03/29/2021 |
Cleaner (as a noun, not an adjective)
Builder (as workman, not a developer)
Vicar
Solicitor
Barrister
Councillor
Fete
W.I.
Helter-skelter (as a noun, not an adjective)
tombola
coconut shy/shie
Morris dancing
quid
bob (for money)
agony aunt
bugger
butty
sarnie
carriageway
motorway
cling film
cooker / cookery
drink-driving
lorry
funfair
golden syrup
hold-all
icing sugar
jacket potato
naff
presenter
number plate
Paki
paracetamol
y-fronts
secondment
kitchen roll
zebra crossing
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 223 | 03/29/2021 |
r223 solid list. we did have about 7 or more of those already mentioned upthread.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 224 | 03/29/2021 |
And 224 replies show not so much how to identify that a poster is English (or British - most Americans don’t understand that there’s a difference), but that citizens of the USA have been responsible for an ongoing assault on the English language since your independence. The examples that you have all provided up thread are not so much examples of how English English differs from American English, but how Americans have, as always, been oblivious to their slaughtering of the English language that the rest of us Anglophones write and speak.
But you all carry on, Americans, while the rest of us laugh at you. We get lots of practice.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 225 | 03/29/2021 |
R225 sounds like a two-room-flat-dwelling pasty-bodied part-time shop clerk with eczema who weawwy wans to teww Amewicans how wousy their Engwish is. He smells of pee and greasy bedsheets.
And then Mother calls for the fourth time that morning.
American is the Prime English-Speaking nation and has been for 90 years. The British adopt every Americanism that rolls out, while Americans, outside the casual traveler or DL silly boy who thinks using slang from 1950s movies is funny, laughs at the suggestion that there is a qualitative difference between Brummie and RP.
And, of course, whether they know it or not, the UK is just a dying banking center.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 226 | 03/29/2021 |
r225 wow, what a weird reaction to my response about your solid list. i have been participating in this thread since the beginning BECAUSE i love all your British-isms, watch many UK-based shows, etc. I have nothing but respect for your culture.
Maybe go have a cuppa and a scone (pronounced the correct, British way). Tut, tut!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 227 | 03/29/2021 |
R213 it can mean that, in terms of 'taking a punt' meaning to take a gamble, therefore someone who punts is arguably a punter - but it is far more commonly used as just a generic term for customer. A busy pub would describe there being 'a lot of thirsty punters in tonight' for example - and it's also used as a term for the clients of a prostitute.
Please do not come for me and try to school me on the use of British slang, you will only make yourself look like a fool.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 228 | 03/30/2021 |
Would like to add too that I've seen a couple of people use the 'P' word and you should be aware that it is considered a racial slur and is NOT in acceptable use in the UK. It may be used, but it's a racist word akin to the 'N' word.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 229 | 03/30/2021 |
R229 Unless you're Prince Harry.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 230 | 03/30/2021 |
[quote]Would like to add too that I've seen a couple of people use the 'P' word and you should be aware that it is considered a racial slur and is NOT in acceptable use in the UK. It may be used, but it's a racist word akin to the 'N' word.
I'd disagree with you there. It *should* be a term akin to the N word but like in the US, anti Asian racism is treated with far less outrage than anti Black racism.
When I posted above about how no one would ever use the term corner store, it's always corner shop, I nearly wrote "or P* shop depending on your upbringing". I probably last heard the term about 10 years ago when I went to a friend's for dinner - he'd cooked a curry and another friend's new partner announced "I never cook curry at home, it makes the flat smell like a P* shop for days". I didn't go to their wedding.
The term "chinky" meaning a Chinese takeaway is common as well in a "I know I shouldn't say that but whatever LOL" way. When a Labour MP used the term he didn't even get a suspension.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 231 | 03/30/2021 |
What's "bent"?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 232 | 03/30/2021 |
R232 Pretty much like crooked when applied to politicians and the like. .
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 233 | 03/30/2021 |
r232 another word for homosexual/bisexual, particularly in the case of effeminate men, just as having a limp wrist. though some also assume it has an association with anal sex.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 234 | 03/30/2021 |
In the case of the Labour MP, he used bent to mean gay. It would expect that kind of word to be used by someone in born in the 30s or 40s. But Gaffney was born in the 60s.
He lost his seat a year later to the Scottish Nationalists, to a man who has fights with his neighbour.
But yes, if a politician is described as bent it usually means corrupt. See also bent coppers in the BBC's Line Of Duty.
Baroness Chakrabarti, of Kennington in the London Borough of Lambeth insisted "I'm not bent" after accepting a life peerage (a seat in the House of Lords and the right to vote on laws despite being unelected) and a job in Jeremy Corbyn's shadow cabinet in exchange for a whitewash report into Labour's problem with anti Jewish racism. Labour was later found guilty of breaching the law by harassing Jews.
Baroness Chakrabarti is, to coin (LOL) a phrase, as bent as a two bob note.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 235 | 03/30/2021 |
Sorry, the phrase is "as bent as nine bob note". Shame on me!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 236 | 03/30/2021 |
"colour"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 237 | 03/30/2021 |
r227 I am not R225
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 238 | 03/30/2021 |
[quote]American is the Prime English-Speaking nation and has been for 90 years.
While this may be true, most of the rest of the world uses British standards in spelling and pronunciation of English. It's what they are taught in school. The BBC and the British Empire had a lot to do with this.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 239 | 03/30/2021 |
In uni I was good at maths but bad at sport.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 240 | 03/30/2021 |
[quote]American is the Prime English-Speaking nation and has been for 90 years. The British adopt every Americanism that rolls out, while Americans, outside the casual traveler or DL silly boy who thinks using slang from 1950s movies is funny, laughs at the suggestion that there is a qualitative difference between Brummie and RP.
[quote]And, of course, whether they know it or not, the UK is just a dying banking center.
What if that were true?
Why do so many Americans have to make every fucking thing a zero sum game — contorting the rules on each occasion to ensure that they "win"? If indeed "America is the Prime English-Speaking nation and has been for 90 years," how does it harm you or OP or anyone else that, in one place, it's aluminum and, in the other, aluminium? How is that too hard a pill for you to swallow, or are you in the perpetually state of a 6-year-old child angry that everywhere the exact same way that you would have it? And why do you have to pull down what you allege is a weak opponent to prop yourself up? What's the fucking point?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 241 | 03/30/2021 |
But then, R241, one could ask why Brits like yourself have to make such a big deal out of every slight slur to your beloved sceptered island? Are you all that sensitive? Has the last century really been that bad?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 242 | 03/30/2021 |
Do Brits say "cock" or "dick" or do have their own word for it? Same question for top vs bottom.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 243 | 03/30/2021 |
R242: Except I'm not a Brit, not a citizen or resident of a sceptred isle. I'm an American citizen by birth, just not one anxious to jump on your bandwagon to lead your team to a stupid victory.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 244 | 03/30/2021 |
[quote]Do Brits say "cock" or "dick" or do have their own word for it? Same question for top vs bottom.
Brits use the phrases "pork sword" and "mister meaty man" in place of openis.
And tops are called "givers" and the bottoms are "takers". Men who do oral only are called "gossips".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 245 | 03/30/2021 |
Toff
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 246 | 03/30/2021 |
That MP is probably a fukin' shirt lifter and a turn burglar !
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 247 | 03/30/2021 |
^^ turd
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 248 | 03/30/2021 |
Sweetie sweetie sweetie darling!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 249 | 03/30/2021 |
238 - so sorry, i shouldn't make assumptions on here! Carry on!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 250 | 03/30/2021 |
r238 I meant! Sorry about that.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 251 | 03/30/2021 |
[quote] Brits use the phrases "pork sword" and "mister meaty man" in place of openis.
There’s possum and opossum. Is "openis" a slightly more formal form of "penis"?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 252 | 03/30/2021 |
No, that's the honorific o, as in o-cha.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 253 | 03/30/2021 |
I always crack up when I read about Brits being “GUTTED” by something they’re disappointed by. It sounds so dramatic to my ears!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 254 | 03/30/2021 |
Sparky.
Chippy.
White van man.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 255 | 03/30/2021 |
R243 yeah we say dick or cock, to describe a hard penis usually rather than flaccid - I would say that cock is probably more common but could be regional - and a flaccid penis is generally called a willy.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 256 | 03/31/2021 |
Bloke Chap Guv' Love (when referring to a person) Wicked!!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 257 | 03/31/2021 |
[quote]yeah we say dick or cock
'Cock' is the go-to in my experience - 'dick' being a bit devalued sexually as it's a mid-range insult. 'He's a total dick', 'Don't be a fucking dick mate', et cetera. No-one ever says, 'He's a total cock.'
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 258 | 03/31/2021 |
I'm gobsmacked by how long this thread is.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 259 | 03/31/2021 |
[quote] White van man.
What's that mean?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 260 | 03/31/2021 |
R260 Young aggressive men with small delivery vehicles.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 261 | 03/31/2021 |
scarpered
did a runner
trainers
kept himself to himself
storm in a teacup
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 262 | 03/31/2021 |
"Pratt" or "A Right Pratt"
A pratt is basically an idiot.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 263 | 03/31/2021 |
ooo good ones r262!
r260 i had to urban dictionary that one myself.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 264 | 03/31/2021 |
[quote] trainers
DAPS
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 265 | 03/31/2021 |
Daps is a Welsh fraise!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 266 | 04/01/2021 |
I don't remember ever hearing the word "whilst" spoken out loud. If I did my brain must have filtered it out.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 267 | 04/01/2021 |
Cash point.
Fortnight.
Travellers.
Caravan.
Maccies.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 268 | 04/01/2021 |
[quote]Daps is a Welsh fraise!
It's a strawberry?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 269 | 04/01/2021 |
the open borders of the internet and the endless list of banned books in the school. brits either sound gay or like chavs.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 270 | 04/01/2021 |
They can't even brush their fucking teeth after eating their garbage food. Their whole identity revolves around worshiping BRF. They think they're gods gift to society and the pinnacle of intelligence. Keep your colonialism to yourselves. Your cuisine sucks, you're hygiene sucks, you live in cramped up squalor.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 271 | 04/01/2021 |
"You're" spelling sucks, r271
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 272 | 04/01/2021 |
Me mum's boyfriend made me cum in me trackies...
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 273 | 04/01/2021 |
Barley sweets
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 274 | 04/01/2021 |
That posh twat has always fancied a bit of rough when he’s cheating behind his hubby
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 275 | 04/01/2021 |
Plonkers
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 276 | 04/01/2021 |
Sleeping rough
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 277 | 04/01/2021 |
Lorry
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 278 | 04/01/2021 |
Gaol
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 279 | 04/01/2021 |
My courgettes are large and ripe
are my aubergines are quite tasty
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 280 | 04/01/2021 |
Me mum's boyfriend has a massive gherkin...
and he likes to show it off
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 281 | 04/01/2021 |
I've seen you staring at my big knob
get down on your knees...and be sharpish about it
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 282 | 04/01/2021 |
“Carriages at midnight” on an invitation.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 283 | 04/01/2021 |
"dodgy" as an adjective which described a situation as not on the up and up, probably not legal or not at all safe.
upthread, "a dodgy" was referred to as a noun.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 284 | 04/01/2021 |
[quote]gods gift
Oh dear.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 285 | 04/01/2021 |
Shan’t
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 286 | 04/02/2021 |
Slag
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 287 | 04/02/2021 |
Bullocks
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 288 | 04/03/2021 |
"Pip pip, cheerio and all that rot"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 289 | 04/03/2021 |
r288 Bullock's was a department store in southern California. I believe you meant BOLLOCKS.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 290 | 04/03/2021 |
CHIPPY TITS
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 291 | 04/03/2021 |
[quote]Bullocks
[quote][R288] Bullock's was a department store in southern California. I believe you meant BOLLOCKS.
When The Beautiful South released Don't Marry Her from their 5th album Welcome To The Beautiful South they had to record the lyrics to make them radio friendly. "Don't Marry Her, Fuck Me" became "Don't Marry Her, Have Me" and "she'll grab your sweaty bollocks and slowly raise the knee" became "she'll grab your Sandra Bullocks and slowly raise her knee.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 292 | 04/03/2021 |
Let's face it: calling someone a knob sounds a lot more classy than "You're a dick".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 293 | 04/03/2021 |
Rissoles(Hamburgers)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 294 | 04/03/2021 |
A pint of ale
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 295 | 04/03/2021 |
Quite right, r90
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 296 | 04/03/2021 |
R295 Make that a yard of ale, matey.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 297 | 04/03/2021 |
Some of you have very odd ideas about the words us Brits use. We don't live in an Enid Blyton book.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 298 | 04/03/2021 |
Perambulator(Baby Carriage)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 299 | 04/03/2021 |
R298 Crikey, you've got it!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 300 | 04/03/2021 |
PRAWNS instead of shrimp.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 301 | 04/03/2021 |
[quote]Perambulator(Baby Carriage)
Even a fake toff like Jacob Rees Mogg wouldn't say perambulator.
It's pram, buggy or pushchair. Maybe stroller if you have parents born in another country.
But never, ever a perambulator.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 302 | 04/03/2021 |
“Posh” annoys me no end. They act so smug when they say it as if it’s such a clever word to use. Sadly, they all overuse it.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 303 | 04/03/2021 |
R301 “Prawns” just sounds disgusting.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 304 | 04/03/2021 |
I hate when the describe food as “lovely” or “nice.”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 305 | 04/03/2021 |
[quote]Even a fake toff like Jacob Rees Mogg wouldn't say perambulator.
I wouldn't put it past him, such is the depth of his alternate-reality immersion. The names of his children suggest as much. 'Sixtus Dominic Boniface' is but one, to offer a flavour.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 306 | 04/03/2021 |
COOKER instead of stove
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 307 | 04/03/2021 |
PASSING WIND instead of farting
Though I suspect this was used mainly by the UPPER CLASS and the Upper Middle Class.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 308 | 04/03/2021 |
R307 Cookers and stoves are different things.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 309 | 04/03/2021 |
Drawing Room instead of living room
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 310 | 04/03/2021 |
Lounge instead of living room.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 311 | 04/03/2021 |
JELLY instead of Jell-o
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 312 | 04/03/2021 |
We say "prawns" in the US, too.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 313 | 04/03/2021 |
We use both prawns and shrimp in the UK, but they tend to be different ideas.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 314 | 04/03/2021 |
Prawns are large, shrimp are small.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 315 | 04/03/2021 |
Scampi and chips with tartare sauce
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 316 | 04/03/2021 |
R308 Read up on U and non-U usage. To quote the relevant Wikipedia article, "the middle classes prefer 'fancy' or fashionable words . . . in attempts to make themselves sound more refined . . while the upper classes in many cases stick to the same plain and traditional words that the working classes also use."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 317 | 04/03/2021 |
r317 maybe dial it down a notch. just speak in a plain fashion.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 318 | 04/03/2021 |
British use "our" to our "or". Example: colour vs. color.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 319 | 04/03/2021 |
Battenberg cake
Tear-and-share
coroner's inquest
fish paste
digestive biscuit
streaky bacon
orange squash
cross (for angry)
Snakes and Ladders (for Chutes and Ladders)
Cluedo (for Clue)
constable
seed cake
jumble sale
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 320 | 04/04/2021 |
R298, what words on here are we wrong about Brits using?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 321 | 04/04/2021 |
Bruv. Greengrocer. (Greengrocer's apostrophe). Fishmonger. Proms. Boiled Sweets. Craic.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 322 | 04/04/2021 |
what is the difference between a market and a greengrocer? or do Brits not use the term market for a grocery store?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 323 | 04/04/2021 |
As the name hints, a greengrocer deals in fruit and vegetables.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 324 | 04/04/2021 |
So a greengrocer only has fruits and vegetables, nothing else? that's what people in the US refer to as a farmer's market.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 325 | 04/04/2021 |
No, more a produce market, like those ones run by Koreans in big U.S. cities.
I think of a farmers' market as having stalls run by different "farmers."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 326 | 04/04/2021 |
R307
The real toffs have an Aga, not a cooker.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 327 | Last Monday at 6:44 PM |
pressurizing for pressuring
phone box
shall/should for will/would
spoilt, learnt, spelt
"talking of" for "speaking of"
interval for intermission
dog's dinner, dog's breakfast (I'm never sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing.)
"not at all" instead of "you're welcome."
scullery
"quite" when used by itself as a sentence/response.
"turn-up" (the first time I heard that, I thought they were saying "turnip."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 328 | Last Tuesday at 8:14 AM |
[quote]shall/should for will/would
These are as different as "I love" and "I like".
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 329 | Last Tuesday at 8:24 AM |
[quote]dog's dinner, dog's breakfast (I'm never sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing.)
A bad thing - a project which might reasonably have been expected to work but is, when presented, notably inadequate.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 330 | Last Tuesday at 8:27 AM |
r329 Perhaps, but in the US, "shall" is rarely used. I agree that "would" and "should" are different.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 331 | Last Tuesday at 8:27 AM |
Fizzy drink
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 332 | Last Tuesday at 8:33 AM |
Speak fucking AMERICAN!. You sound like you are better than me!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 333 | Last Tuesday at 8:35 AM |
"gone pear-shaped"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 334 | Last Tuesday at 8:44 AM |
IT'S ALL GONE TITS UP!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 335 | Last Tuesday at 8:59 AM |
Noughts and Crosses (tic tac toe)
Give Way (yield)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 336 | Last Tuesday at 12:27 PM |
A rissole isn't a burger R294 - unless it's some regional terminology I'm not aware of - a rissole is it's own thing.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 337 | Last Wednesday at 12:42 AM |
Not convinced of that R307 - to me, the stove top would be the hob, and the hob + oven = cooker.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 338 | Last Wednesday at 12:45 AM |
Cor.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 339 | Last Wednesday at 5:17 AM |
Flippin' 'eck
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 340 | Last Wednesday at 5:38 AM |
"Chip Butty". It's just some french fries between two slices of white bread. That's it.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 341 | Last Wednesday at 5:46 AM |
R274 not Barley Sweets, Barley Sugar.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 342 | Last Wednesday at 6:23 AM |
R341 French fries are what you buy at Maccy Ds. Totally unsuitable for a chip butty.
You need proper chips from a chippy for a chip butty.
Ahhh...that's brings us nicely into what us Brits call this, in our parts of the UK....
Chips between a bread roll is called a....?
I'll start - Chip Cob.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 343 | Last Wednesday at 6:30 AM |
Being "poorly" (sick)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 344 | Last Wednesday at 6:32 AM |
Where I come from that's a chippy bap, not to be confused with Poison's Unskinny Bop
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 345 | Last Wednesday at 6:33 AM |
Are you up north R345?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 346 | Last Wednesday at 6:37 AM |
Where I come from you eat baps in daps round your bampy's house.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 347 | Last Wednesday at 6:41 AM |
Ahhh baps!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 348 | Last Wednesday at 3:21 PM |
A sandwich made with potatoes. Weird.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 349 | Last Wednesday at 4:18 PM |
“You lot”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 350 | Last Wednesday at 5:08 PM |
(in a club)"easy mate, you havin' a good night" "yeah im fuckin' sorted bruv!!"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 351 | Last Wednesday at 5:11 PM |
How very dare you!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 352 | Last Wednesday at 5:13 PM |
R351 My nephew when he calls me on the phone says more or less exactly that.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 353 | Last Wednesday at 10:09 PM |
PRIV-acy, not PRIVE-acy.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 354 | Last Wednesday at 11:15 PM |
As an American, I love the word ”wank.” It sounds fun and naughty all at once.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 355 | Last Thursday at 12:30 AM |
“My family cut me off. I was down to my last $30 million.”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 356 | Last Thursday at 12:32 AM |
R355 My boyfriend had a good wank this morning. He wanks quite often. We live apart, so he sent me a pick of the results of his wank this morning.
Have a great day!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 357 | Last Thursday at 1:21 AM |
"I'm British."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 358 | Last Thursday at 3:36 AM |
Calling people: Wanker; Cunt, used as an endearment; Muppet (I don't get this one - does it mean a dumbass?)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 359 | Last Thursday at 5:14 AM |
R359 yes, ‘muppet’ is a soft-edged and sometimes affectionate way of calling someone a fool or an idiot. You can use ‘muppet’ in reference to a friend, family member or colleague, or in a casual but polite debate, and not cause too much offence. It’s a light little rib.
Cf. ‘nugget’, if you’re talking to a Manc.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 360 | Last Thursday at 5:34 AM |
R347 where I come from (Hereford/FOD/South West), we would have a Ploughman’s round Pops/Paps.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 361 | Last Thursday at 5:43 AM |
[quote][R347] where I come from (Hereford/FOD/South West), we would have a Ploughman’s round Pops/Paps.
I'm not going to lie to you but truth be told that sounds tidy like.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 362 | Last Thursday at 5:45 AM |
Terraced house.
Country house.
Surgery.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 363 | Last Thursday at 6:06 AM |
A&E - instead of ER
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 364 | Last Thursday at 6:07 AM |
Pull.
Squadie.
Fly-tip.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 365 | Last Thursday at 12:54 PM |
"Continue acting if you'd like, dear. You'll never get anywhere near the throne."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 366 | Last Thursday at 2:12 PM |
Jim-jams or PJs
Pyjamas
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 367 | Last Thursday at 2:59 PM |
'flu, with the apostrophe
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 368 | Last Thursday at 5:19 PM |
I'm quite keen on the builder. If I can't have him I'll settle for the decorator. I fancy him as well.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 369 | Last Thursday at 5:38 PM |
Lorry driver
Socialise, accessorise, stabilise.....
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 370 | Last Friday at 12:43 PM |
Is "tall poppy syndrome" a thing in the UK - or just Australia?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 371 | Last Friday at 12:46 PM |
Smiling indulgently when we read “ I could care less”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 372 | Last Friday at 12:56 PM |
R371 I think people in the UK know it, but it's really meant to describe a particular aspect of Australian culture.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 373 | Last Friday at 2:26 PM |
[quote]I fancy him as well
I fancy him rotten.
[quote]Is "tall poppy syndrome" a thing in the UK
Known as 'Build 'em up, knock 'em down.' The basic MO of the tabloid press.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 374 | Last Friday at 10:00 PM |
e's a tosser, he is!
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 375 | Last Friday at 10:18 PM |
Some of these aren’t exclusively British, but they’re not often used in the US as far as I know. I’ve lived outside the US for almost 20 years and know certain words have crept the other way like ginger, queue, ‘gone missing’, etc. I’d say the regional differences within both the UK and US are still greater than the differences between ‘standard’ UK and US tv broadcaster English. It’s hard to generalise.
Treat - as in ‘goes down a treat’ or ‘came up a treat’
Kit - as in a uniform, outfit, any set of tools or equipment.
Punter - as in gambler or general customer...speaking of....
Custom - ‘thank you for your custom’.
Tuck in - start eating especially if you’ve been peckish all day.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 376 | Yesterday at 1:16 AM |
Stop fannying about.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 377 | Yesterday at 1:22 AM |
Cunt face.
Knockers.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 378 | Yesterday at 2:00 AM |
British people use "kip" to mean either a nap or a longer sleep; it can also mean the idea or act of sleeping, as in “Will you be quiet? I'm trying to get some kip in here!” It can also be a verb: “They kipped down for the night”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 379 | Yesterday at 4:28 AM |
Adding "done" to the end of phrases like "might have," "could have," "should have," etc.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 380 | Yesterday at 5:07 AM |
"Needs must."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 381 | Yesterday at 5:07 AM |
R377 my dad likes that one, and he sometimes says it “fanny-annying” (I don’t know why). He uses it interchangeably with “pissballing” and “mithering” (though the latter implies some degree of hopeful pestering on the part of the subject).
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 382 | Yesterday at 5:17 AM |
“Are you [bold]actually[/bold] alright?”
=
“Mate you fucking losing your mind or summat? You’d have to be going round believing bollox like that...”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 383 | Yesterday at 7:37 AM |
Mental, innit?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 384 | Yesterday at 8:18 AM |
R379 I thought "kip" referred to "kippered" which I see all the time in E.F. Benson novels and seems to imply being smoked or something.
Someday I'd like to learn British.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 385 | Yesterday at 8:25 AM |
Wanna go down the pub and eat some tea bruv? Lots of birds down there with massive tits, innit?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 386 | a day ago |
"He got stitched up like a kipper, stitched up big-time. Got ten years."
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 387 | a day ago |
it's weird that Brits talk about "eating tea" when we think of tea as a drink. i guess tea in that case is a stand-in for dinner? wonder how that came about?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 388 | a day ago |
[quote]Wanna go down the pub and eat some tea bruv?
No one in Britain has ever eaten their tea in a pub.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 389 | a day ago |
Just what I think I've pieced together -- long ago, it wasn't dangerous to be out after dark, so the practice of having an earlier time to get together with others started - "tea time." Well, you didn't just go to visit to drink a cup of tea - there was food - cucumber sandwiches or maybe much more - but you couldn't have a dinner party because it was too dangerous to be out on the streets. Maybe this is before police - or bobbies?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 390 | a day ago |
* it WAS dangerous to be out after dark
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 391 | a day ago |
[quote]it's weird that Brits talk about "eating tea" when we think of tea as a drink. i guess tea in that case is a stand-in for dinner? wonder how that came about?
Tea (food wise) is an informal dinner, early evening.
Dinner can be the evening meals or lunch - school dinners are served at lunchtime.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 392 | a day ago |
What exactly is (are?) elevenses?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 394 | a day ago |
Coffee or tea and biscuits or cake taken around 11am.
Either at work, ie on a fag break or when a nosy neighbour pops in for a natter over a Hobnob.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 395 | 18 hours ago |
^that's what most of us in the US think of as "tea"
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 396 | 18 hours ago |
Joint (something you roast in the kitchen)
Salt beef (careful ordering "corned beef"!)
Oxo (U.S. Scrabble players know this one)
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 397 | 17 hours ago |
r397 the game or the manufacturer of kitchen utensils?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 398 | 17 hours ago |
R398 The stock cubes.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 399 | 17 hours ago |
hm, yeah. didn't know about those r399. we call them bouillon cubes. why? don't know.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 400 | 17 hours ago |
R400 it's the timeless culinary war between French and Anglo Saxon isn't it?
Pigs, Cows, Sheep when slaughtered, suddenly change their language and become pork, beef and mutton.
One man's stock cube is another man's bouillon.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 401 | 17 hours ago |
r401 completely true. This is why I love threads like this - to find our differences, but still commonalities. Although I will say we don't seem to eat a whole lot of sheep/mutton here. At least, not in my family or many people I know.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 402 | 17 hours ago |
So do you have elevenses at work, or just a coffee (or tea) break? And when do you eat lunch if you have a snack at 11? Most workplaces have lunch between 11:30 and 1. And then another meal before dinner (afternoon tea)? Why isn't everyone 300 lbs?
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 403 | 16 hours ago |
Elevenses tend to include a biscuit or piece of cake, do they tend to be a prolonged break. Tea break could be just a hurried cuppa tea.
Luncheon, HM The Queen hates the word lunch, is taken between noon and 2pm.
Yes you could have breakfast at 8am, elevenses at 11am, lunch at 1pm, tea at 4pm, then dinner at 7pm, before supper at 10pm and bed.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 404 | 16 hours ago |
“You all right then?”
“Come off it!”
“Steady on!”
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 405 | 15 hours ago |
Shedule
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 406 | 15 hours ago |
The worst, most bizarre, just away word in British is "cuppa."
WTF? Cuppa???
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 407 | 14 hours ago |
^awful
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 408 | 14 hours ago |
the mento illness, luv
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 409 | 14 hours ago |
The worst, most bizarre, just away word in British is "cuppa." WTF? Cuppa???
Not that weird, it's just short for cup of.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 410 | 14 hours ago |
seems a llot of food breaks. but then again, we do think have a tendency to think of 6 food breaks a day so maybe...
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 411 | 13 hours ago |
wow. r411. you fucked up royally.
by Why can't the English learn to speak English? | reply 412 | 13 hours ago |
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