So of course one of the most interesting parts of getting integrated into my new culture is the difference in accent and dialect. From time to time I do have to ask for something to be repeated or play my dumb American card and ask them what some term or phrase means in context. I have jotted down a few words or phrases that I've picked up along the way (although I'm sure there are hundreds more that I haven't listed here). Feel free to add some to the comment section below that I may have missed ...
My dictionary for English to American translations (keep in mind I work with almost all men in the sales group):
cheers = hello, goodbye, thank you (I think of it like Aloha in Hawaii)
and some bits = a little extra, used in context "how long do you take for lunch?" "An hour and some bits"
bespoke = custom, specially made
not = zero
boot = car trunk
bonnet = hood of the car
windscreen = windshield
direction indicators = turn signals
pissed = drunk
smart = dressy, dressed up, put together well
fancy = to like or desire something or someone
fortnight = two weeks
pikey = term for gypsies or people that live in caravans
trousers = pants
uni = university
diary = schedule, calendar
chips = french fries
crisps = chips
pudding = general term for desert
biscuit = cookie
holiday = vacation
snog = make-out, kissing
in a strop = annoyed
nappies = diapers
knackered = tired
hoover = vacum
rubbish = crappy
chav = juvenile delinquent, low class
posh = upper class, well-mannered
bin = trash can
lift = elevator
charity shop = thirft store
loo / water closet = restroom
you alright? = how are you?
let = rent
post = mail
What does jumper mean? I think jacket, but not sure, and also mind the gap of course. I learned a few that are considered really bad so I won't repeat them....
ReplyDeleteJumper is a sweater as far as I can tell but that is a great one as they use it all the time :) Thanks!
ReplyDelete