You could be forgiven for thinking that Scottish slang is an entirely different language from the rest of the UK. Between the broad accents and regional variations in which Scots speak, as well as words carried over from Gaelic and other ancient languages, understanding Scottish slang can feel like deciphering a foreign language. But worry not, this ultimate guide to Scottish slang will help you blend in north of the border, whether you're travelling to Scotland or just curious about the mysterious Scottish lilt.
The Ultimate Guide to Scottish Slang: Blend in Like a Local
Common Scottish Words and Phrases
To kick things off, let’s dive into some of the most commonly used Scottish words and phrases. These are everyday terms that you’ll hear all over Scotland, and understanding them will go a long way in helping you navigate conversations with the locals.
Auld: Old
Aye: Yes
Blether: Chatterbox or to chatter
Boke: Gag or vomit
Canny: Careful or sometimes clever
Clipe: To tell on someone or snitch
Chitter: Shiver
Crabbit: Bad-tempered or grumpy
Dae (pronounced ‘day’): Do
Dinnae: Don’t
Drookit: Soaking wet
Eejit: Idiot
Greet: Cry
Haver: Talk nonsense
Ken: Know
Noo: Now
Och: Oh
Peely-wally: Pale or wan
Piece: A sandwich
Skelp: Slap
Tattie: Potato
Regional Variations
One of the most fascinating aspects of Scottish slang is its regional diversity. Here are some notable differences:
Edinburgh vs. Glasgow
In Edinburgh, you might hear people talking about their “bairns” (children), while in Glasgow, they refer to them as “weans.” Both terms mean small children, but they illustrate the regional flavour of Scottish slang.
Highland vs. Lowland
In the Highlands, Gaelic influences are more pronounced. For example, you might hear “cù” for dog, while in the Lowlands, you’re more likely to hear “dug.” These regional variations add richness to the Scottish linguistic landscape.
Scottish Phrases of Endearment
Scots are passionate folk, and their terms of endearment reflect this warmth and affection.
Hen: Refers to a female, often a younger lady, used like "honey" or "sweetheart."
Bonnie lass: Pretty or beautiful girl.
Braw: Handsome (for men).
Tidy: Attractive (for women).
Interestingly, some terms that might sound like insults are actually used affectionately among close friends. For example, “Awright ya wee bawbag?” (scrotum) can be a friendly greeting akin to “Hello, how are you, my friend?”
Another charming phrase is “Lang mae yer lum reek,” which translates to “long may your chimney smoke” and means “I wish you a long and healthy life.”
Scottish Swear Words and Insults
The Scots are renowned for their creative and colourful swear words. Here’s a selection of some of the most interesting ones:
Div or dafty: Fool
Numpty or nugget: A particularly foolish fool
Jobby: Poop
Bawbag: Scrotum (used affectionately or as an insult)
In fact, “Hurricane Bawbag” became an internet sensation in 2011, when a severe storm in Scotland was humorously named.
For body parts, Scots have their own slang as well:
Bahookie: Bum
Banger: Male private parts
Scottish Insults
Scots have some of the most imaginative insults. Here are a few:
Awa’ n bile yer heid: Go away and boil your head (get lost)
Eejit: Idiot
Feartie: Coward
Gommy: Simple-looking, idiot
Gowk: Fool, simpleton
Lavvy heid: Toilet head
Nyaff: Irritating person
Roaster/Rocket: Idiot
Tube: Idiot
You can spice up these insults with adjectives like:
Boggin: Foul-smelling
Bowfin: Unpleasant
Doolally: Not all there
Hackit: Ugly
Howlin’: Smelly
Naff: Boring, rubbish
Scabby: Dirty
If you ever find yourself on the receiving end of one of these, a simple “Shut yer pus” (shut your mouth) might be a fitting response.
Beautiful Scottish Words
It wouldn’t be fair to only highlight the crude and rude aspects of Scottish slang without acknowledging some of its more beautiful words:
Coorie: To cuddle or nestle in, especially when it’s cold.
Smourich: A kiss.
Crouss: To be cheerful.
Flichterin’: Soft fluttering, like the wings of a butterfly.
Gloaming: Twilight or dusk.
Solasta: Luminous or shining.
Saorsa: Freedom, liberty.
Turadh: A break in the clouds between showers.
Fearthainn: Rain.
Monadh: Moorland covered mountain.
Scottish Sayings and Proverbs
Scottish sayings often carry wisdom and humour. Here are some favourites:
Yer lookin’ a bit peely wally: You look pale or ill.
That’s gee-in me the boak: That’s making me feel sick.
Gonny no dae that: Please don’t do that.
Haud yer weesht: Be quiet.
She’s up tae high doh: She’s riled up and flustered.
Hairy Coo: Highland cow.
I’ll gie ye a skelpit lug: I’ll give you a slap on the ear.
Whit’s fur ye’ll no go by ye!: What’s meant to happen will happen.
Skinny Malinky Longlegs: Said about a tall, thin person.
Haste Ye Back!: Return soon.
It’s a dreich day: A cold, damp, and miserable day.
Do the Scottish Use Rhyming Slang?
Yes, they do! Similar to Cockney rhyming slang, Scottish rhyming slang is based on pronunciation rather than written form. Here are some fun examples:
Andy Murray: Curry (e.g., "Fancy gettin’ an Andy Murray the night?")
Mick Jagger: Lager (e.g., "Grab us a Mick Jagger, pal!")
Gordon Strachan: Cracking (e.g., "That wiz pure Strachan.")
Lorraine Kelly: Telly (e.g., "Goan turn oan the Lorraine Kelly?")
Practical Guide for Visitors
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, here are some essential phrases to help you get by:
Aye: Yes
Naw: No
Ah dinnae ken: I don’t know
Cannae: Can’t
Dinnae fash yersel: Don’t worry yourself
Pure dead brilliant: Really good
Gonnae no dae that: Please don’t do that
Scottish Slang in Popular Culture
Scottish slang has made its way into popular culture, especially through films and TV shows. Films like Trainspotting and TV series like Still Game and Rab C. Nesbitt showcase the rich tapestry of Scottish vernacular. These cultural artefacts help spread the charm and uniqueness of Scottish slang to a broader audience.
Misconceptions and Myths
Some phrases often attributed to Scots are actually myths. For example:
“Och aye the noo”: While “och aye” and “the noo” are used separately, you’ll rarely hear them together outside of comedy.
I love you in Scottish slang: A loue ye.
Scottish slang for drunk: Blootered, steamin’, wrecked, bladdered, hammered, sloshed, smashed, and more colourful phrases like “oot yer tree” and “steamboated.”
Resources for Learning More
If you’re interested in diving deeper into Scottish slang, here are some useful resources:
Embracing Scottish slang is more than just learning new words; it’s about understanding and appreciating the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland. From affectionate terms to creative insults and beautiful words, Scottish slang reflects the heart and soul of this vibrant nation. So next time you’re in Scotland, don’t be afraid to throw a few of these phrases into conversation. Lang mae yer lum reek!
By familiarising yourself with these words and phrases, you’ll not only enrich your vocabulary but also gain a deeper appreciation for the Scottish way of life. Happy learning, and haste ye back!
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