Phrases
Spoken English in London also has a unique set of phrases that are different from formal, written English. Some of the phrases that are commonly used in spoken English in London include:
- See ya - Informal way of saying goodbye.
- Take care - A phrase wishing someone well.
- Catch ya later - Another way of saying goodbye.
- Fancy a cuppa? - Asking if someone would like a cup of tea.
- Alright? / All right? - A common informal greeting, similar to "How are you?"
- I'm knackered - Expressing being very tired.
- I'm chuffed to bits - Very pleased or happy.
- To bodge something - To make or repair something badly.
- I'm pissed - Means being drunk.
- Bob's your uncle - It's as simple as that.
- Mind the gap - A warning to train passengers about the space between the train door and the platform.
- Cheers, mate - Thanks, friend.
- It's my round - It's my turn to buy the drinks.
- Don't get shirty with me - Don't get upset with me.
- I'm gutted - I'm very disappointed.
- Let's have a butchers - Let's have a look (from "butcher's hook" - look).
- Lost the plot - Lost touch with reality.
- Not my cup of tea - Not something I like.
- Up the duff - Pregnant.
- Taking the Mickey - Teasing or making fun of someone.
- Throw a spanner in the works - To cause a disruption.
- It's chucking it down - It's raining heavily.
- Knees up - A lively party or gathering.
- Bee's knees - Excellent or high quality.
- The dog's bollocks - Something really good or top quality.
- Have a gander - Take a look.
- It's brass monkeys outside - It's very cold outside.
- I haven't seen you in donkey's years - I haven't seen you in a long time.
- On your bike! - Go away!
- A few sandwiches short of a picnic - Not very intelligent.
- He's a right old codger - He's a peculiar old man.
- I'm on the pull - Looking to find a romantic partner.
- She's a bit of all right - She's very attractive.
- Over the moon - Extremely happy or pleased.
- Under the weather - Feeling ill.
- Piece of cake - Something very easy.
- More tea, Vicar? - An ironic or joking question when something mildly scandalous happens.
- Budge up - Move over, make some space.
- Can't be arsed - Can't be bothered.
- Skive off - To avoid work or school without a good reason.
- Bang out of order - Completely unacceptable.
- Quids in - To profit or benefit from something.
- The Old Bill - The police.
- Give me a bell - Call me.
- Naff off - Go away.