30 British Phrases That Always Confuse Americans
Updated: Jun. 28, 2021Although Americans and Brits both speak english, there are tons of confusing British phrases, words, and slang that have unique meanings. Here are the ones you should know.
“A right bodge job”
This is one those British phrases that refers to something someone has done poorly. Make sure you memorize these phrases before going abroad!
“Getting pissed”
This British slang phrase means getting drunk. In the U.S., “getting pissed” on the road is much more acceptable than it is in the U.K. This is why Europeans drive manual instead of automatic.
“I’ll give you a bell”
This means you will call someone on the phone later. It has nothing to do with an actual bell!
“Bagsy!”
This British saying is equal to calling “shotgun” or securing something for oneself.
“That’s pants!”
Brits use this phrase when something is nonsense. Here are the origins of commonly used phrases.
“Pop your clogs”
Nope, this doesn’t have anything to do with shoe wear. This phrase actually means to die.
“They’re such a chav”
This informal (and somewhat derogatory) saying refers to someone who is brash, low-class, or cheap.
“It’s a real dog’s breakfast”
Some people say dinner instead of breakfast, but the meaning is still the same. A “dog’s breakfast” is a mess! Find out the 14 foods you didn’t know were called by different names in the United Kingdom.
“He waffled on”
This informal British phrase means to speak or write in a long, vague, or trivial manner. It’s almost equivalent to dilly-dallying in American English.
“Taking the mickey”
“Taking the mickey” means to make fun or someone or something. Don’t miss these annoying phrases you probably use without thinking.
“Sod’s Law”
The Brits use the saying “Sod’s Law” to explain back luck or misfortune. It’s the British version of Murphy’s Law.
“You’re full of beans”
Again, this saying has nothing to do with consuming beans. It really means to be in high spirits. Check out these 10 words that mean very different things in America and in England.
“Have a kip”
British people use “kip” instead of nap. Make sure you aren’t using these instant conversation killers.
“Fancy dress”
This is how the British say costume! Don’t miss these other popular British phrases everyone should know.
“This is a doddle”
A “doddle” is a simple task. Next, check out the words and phrases you are probably using all wrong.
[Source: Oxford University Press, The Evening Standard]
