British Slang: Navigating the UK's Unique Vocabulary

British slang is an interesting and lively part of the English language. It shows the rich culture of the country through unique words and phrases. 

Let's explore what slang actually is and look at some common words and phrases you might encounter in everyday conversations. 

What is slang? 

Slang is a type of language made up of very informal words and phrases, more often used in speech than in writing, and usually limited to a specific context or group. 

Common slang phrases used in Britain: 

1. Bees Knees- 

This phrase is used to describe something or someone as excellent. 

Example: “The new smartphone that just came out is the bees knees—it has all the latest features I've been looking for.”

2. Cheerio- 

The word is used as a friendly goodbye.

Example: “Cheerio! Have a splendid day!”

3. Chin Wag-  

A chin wag means to have a long chat/discussion.

Example: “After a long week, we finally met for a good chin wag over coffee.”

4. Don’t cry over spilt milk-  

This phrase means not to waste time feeling upset or complaining about something that has already happened and cannot be changed.

Example: “I know the project didn't go as planned, but there's no use crying over spilt milk; let's focus on how to fix it.”

5. Earful- 

To receive an earful means to be told off. 

Example: “She got an earful from her parents.”

6. Gobsmacked-  

Gobsmacked translates to being shocked or amazed. 

 Example: “I was gobsmacked when my sister told me she was moving to Australia.”

7. Kerfuffle- 

A kerfuffle is a fuss or commotion. 

Example: “There was a bit of a kerfuffle when we tried to leave the festival.”

8. Not my cup of tea- 

This means something does not appeal to you/is not to your liking.

Example: “My dad likes football, but it is not my cup of tea.”

9. Piece of cake-  

This means that something is easy to do. 

 Example: “That exam was a piece of cake.”

10. Throw a spanner in the works-  

This phrase means that something has gone wrong. 

Example: “The last-minute change to our hotel check-in could throw a spanner in the works for our weekend getaway.”

These are just a handful of the many slang terms used across the country. Have any favourites? 

Interested in learning more about the English language? Here at Anglia, we offer a series of step-by-step tests to help assess your proficiency and guide you on your language-learning journey.