If you’ve ever come across British slang words and you live anywhere other than the UK, it’s understandable if you’re confused by what they mean! But, fear not! This ultimate list of British slang words covers the popular slang words and phrases that you might hear in the UK.
So, go and put on a cuppa, and let’s have a gander at some British lingo.
117 British Slang Words
British and UK slang can sometimes seem like a whole other language with words taking on different meanings and phrases you probably haven’t even heard of before. This list introduces you to a variety of slang words and phrases commonly used in the UK to help you learn British English slang.
So, whether you’re engaging in banter with mates, or simply looking to go for a wee bevvy let this be your guide to the British slang words and colloquialisms you could hear.
A cuppa: A cup of tea. Commonly used when someone wants to express a desire for a hot beverage, particularly tea.
Example sentence: “I fancy a cuppa after that long walk.”
All right: A greeting or inquiry about one’s well-being. Used as a casual way to say hello and check in on someone.
Example sentence: “All right, mate? How’s it going?”
Arse: Buttocks or backside. A more informal and potentially humorous term for the posterior.
Example sentence: “I nearly fell on my arse when I slipped on the ice.”
Banter: Playful and teasing conversation. Often used in the context of joking and light-hearted exchanges.
Example sentence: “We always have good banter at the pub.”
Bender: A drinking spree or a period of overindulgence in alcohol. Describes a session of heavy drinking, often lasting for an extended period.
Example sentence: “He’s been on a bender all weekend.”
Bevvy: Alcoholic drink. Refers to a beverage, typically an alcoholic one, and is commonly used in the context of going out for drinks.
Example sentence: “Let’s go to the pub for a few bevies.”
Bird: A woman or girlfriend. Sometimes used informally to refer to a romantic partner.
Example sentence: “I’m going out with the bird tonight.”
Bite your arm off: Eagerly and enthusiastically accepting an offer. Implies a strong desire or willingness to accept something.
Example sentence: “If you offer him a job, he’ll bite your arm off.”
Blimey: An exclamation of surprise or shock. Used to express amazement or disbelief.
Example sentence: “Blimey, that was unexpected!”
Bloke: A man or guy. A common term to refer to a male individual.
Example sentence: “He’s a friendly bloke I met at the pub.”
Bloody: An intensifier or expression of frustration. Used for emphasis or to convey irritation.
Example sentence: “It’s been a bloody long day.”
Bog: Toilet or bathroom. An informal term for the facilities where one relieves themselves.
Example sentence: “I’ll be right back, just going to the bog.”
Bog roll: Toilet paper. Refers to the paper used for personal hygiene in the bathroom.
Example sentence: “We’re out of bog roll; need to buy some.”
Bollocks: Nonsense or rubbish. Used to dismiss something as untrue or nonsensical.
Example sentence: “That’s a load of bollocks.”
Bonkers: Crazy or mad. Describes something or someone as eccentric or mentally unstable.
Example sentence: “The idea sounded bonkers, but it worked.”
Bruv: Informal term for brother or mate. A friendly way to address a friend or close acquaintance.
Example sentence: “Hey, bruv, how’s it going?”
Bugger all: Nothing at all. Indicates the absence of something or a lack of anything significant.
Example sentence: “I’ve got bugger all to do this weekend.”
Buzzin’: Excited or thrilled. Expresses a high level of enthusiasm or anticipation.
Example sentence: “I’m buzzin’ for the concert tonight.”
Can’t be arsed: Cannot be bothered or motivated to do something. Indicates a lack of interest or willingness to make an effort.
Example sentence: “I can’t be arsed to cook; let’s order takeout.”
Cheers: Thank you or a toast before drinking. Commonly used when expressing gratitude or raising a glass in celebration.
Example sentence: “Cheers for helping me out.”
Cheeky: Playfully impudent or sassy. Describes behavior that is bold or audacious in a lighthearted way.
Example sentence: “She’s got a cheeky sense of humor.”
Chav: Stereotypically, a young person with a brash and flashy style. Often used to describe someone perceived as lower class and lacking sophistication.
Example sentence: “Those chavs are making a lot of noise.”
Chinwag: Informal chat or conversation. Refers to a friendly and informal discussion.
Example sentence: “Let’s have a chinwag over coffee.”
Chippy: Fish and chip shop or a restaurant. Specifically, a place that sells traditional British fish and chips.
Example sentence: “I’m in the mood for some chippy.”
Chuffed: Pleased or delighted. Expresses a sense of happiness or contentment.
Example sentence: “I’m chuffed with the results of the exam.”
Cock-up: A mistake or error. Describes a situation where something has gone wrong.
Example sentence: “There was a cock-up in the schedule.”
Crack on: Proceed or get on with something. Encourages someone to continue or make progress with a task.
Example sentence: “Let’s crack on with the project.”
Cracking: Excellent or impressive. Used to compliment something as outstanding or exceptional.
Example sentence: “That was a cracking performance.”
Daft: Silly or foolish. Describes behavior or ideas that are perceived as lacking in common sense.
Example sentence: “Don’t be daft; it’s just a joke.”
Dive: A shabby or unpleasant place. Refers to a location, often a bar or pub, that is run-down or unappealing.
Example sentence: “Let’s find a better pub; this one’s a dive.”
Dodgy: Suspicious or unreliable. Describes something that seems questionable or potentially untrustworthy.
Example sentence: “I wouldn’t trust that dodgy-looking guy.”
Faffing around: Wasting time or being indecisive. Refers to someone who is not being productive or is taking too long to make a decision.
Example sentence: “Stop faffing around and make a decision.”
Fag: Cigarette. A colloquial term for a cigarette.
Example sentence: “I need a break; I’m going for a fag.”
Fit: Attractive or good-looking. Describes someone who is physically appealing.
Example sentence: “She’s really fit, isn’t she?”
Five-o: Police. Slang for law enforcement.
Example sentence: “Watch out, here comes the five-o.”
Fiver: A five-pound note. A colloquial term for a specific currency denomination.
Example sentence: “Can you lend me a fiver until payday?”
For crying out loud: An expression of frustration or exasperation. Used to convey annoyance or impatience.
Example sentence: “For crying out loud, can you be quiet?”
Full of beans: Energetic and lively. Describes someone who is full of energy and enthusiasm.
Example sentence: “After a good night’s sleep, I’m full of beans.”
Gaff: House or residence. Slang for a place of residence.
Example sentence: “We’re having a party at my gaff.”
Gander: A look or glance. Refers to taking a quick look at something.
Example sentence: “Take a gander at this.”
Get-in: Expression of success or achievement. Used to celebrate a successful outcome or accomplishment.
Example sentence: “We won the game—get-in!”
Git: An unpleasant or contemptible person. A derogatory term for someone disliked.
Example sentence: “He’s such a git; I can’t stand him.”
Gob: Mouth. Slang for the mouth or oral cavity.
Example sentence: “Shut your gob and listen.”
Gobsmacked: Astonished or amazed. Describes a state of being utterly surprised or shocked.
Example sentence: “I was gobsmacked by the surprise party.”
Grand: One thousand pounds or excellent. Refers to a specific amount of money or describes something as excellent.
Example sentence: “It cost me a grand to fix the car.”
Grafting: Working hard or putting in effort. Describes the act of working diligently.
Example sentence: “I’ve been grafting all week on this project.”
Grub: Food, especially a meal that is hearty or satisfying.
Example sentence: “Let’s grab some grub before heading to the cinema.”
Gutted: Extremely disappointed. Describes a profound sense of disappointment or sadness.
Example sentence: “I’m gutted that I missed the concert.”
Hammered: Drunk or intoxicated. Indicates a state of heavy inebriation.
Example sentence: “We got absolutely hammered at the pub.”
Hunky-dory: Fine or going well. Describes a situation that is satisfactory or proceeding smoothly.
Example sentence: “Everything’s hunky-dory at work.”
I’m easy: I don’t mind or it’s okay. Indicates a lack of preference or a willingness to go along with someone else’s choice.
Example sentence: “Pizza or burgers? I’m easy, whatever you prefer.”
Innit: Isn’t it, or right? A colloquial term used to seek confirmation or agreement.
Example sentence: “Nice weather today, innit?”
Jammy: Lucky or fortunate. Describes someone who is perceived as being fortunate or having good luck.
Example sentence: “You’re so jammy; you always win.”
Jiffy: A short period of time. Refers to a brief or short duration.
Example sentence: “I’ll be back in a jiffy.”
Keep your hair on: Calm down or don’t get angry. A phrase used to tell someone to remain calm or not to become upset.
Example sentence: “Keep your hair on; it’s just a joke.”
Kerfuffle: A commotion or fuss. Describes a state of confusion or disturbance.
Example sentence: “There was a bit of a kerfuffle at the party.”
Kip: Sleep or a nap. Slang for a short period of sleep or rest.
Example sentence: “I need to catch a quick kip before the meeting.”
Knackered: Extremely tired or exhausted. Describes a state of extreme fatigue.
Example sentence: “I’m knackered after that long day at work.”
Lad: A young man or friend. A colloquial term for a young man or a friend.
Example sentence: “He’s a good lad, always there to help.”
Ledge: A cool or admirable person. Describes someone who is highly respected or admired.
Example sentence: “He’s a ledge; he fixed my car for free.”
Leave it out: Stop it or don’t continue. A phrase used to ask someone to cease their actions or remarks.
Example sentence: “Leave it out; I don’t want to hear it.”
Lingo: Language or vocabulary, often referring to specialized or unfamiliar terms.
Example sentence: “It took me a while to get used to the local lingo when I moved to London.”
Loo: Toilet or bathroom. A common term for the facilities where one relieves themselves.
Example sentence: “I’ll be right back; I need to use the loo.”
Lost the plot: Became confused or lost control. Describes a situation where someone has become disoriented or overwhelmed.
Example sentence: “During the presentation, he completely lost the plot.”
Lush: Very pleasant or attractive. Describes something as highly appealing or delightful.
Example sentence: “That dessert was lush; I want another.”
Mate: Friend or buddy. A commonly used term for a friend or companion.
Example sentence: “Hey mate, how’s it going?”
Mental: Crazy or insane. Describes something or someone as being mentally unstable or wild.
Example sentence: “That party was mental; everyone was dancing.”
Miffed: Annoyed or upset. Indicates a mild state of irritation or displeasure.
Example sentence: “He was a bit miffed when he didn’t get the promotion.”
Minging: Disgusting or unpleasant. Describes something that is highly unattractive or unpleasant.
Example sentence: “The smell in that room is minging.”
Minted: Rich or having a lot of money. Refers to someone who is wealthy or well-off.
Example sentence: “He’s minted; he drives a fancy car.”
Moolah: Money or cash. A more informal term for currency or funds.
Example sentence: “I need to save some moolah for the vacation.”
Mug: A gullible or easily deceived person. Describes someone who is easily taken advantage of.
Example sentence: “Don’t be a mug; they’re just trying to trick you.”
Muppet: Fool or silly person. A term used to playfully insult someone for foolish behavior.
Example sentence: “You’re acting like a right muppet.”
Naff: Uncool or tacky. Describes something that is perceived as unfashionable or lacking style.
Example sentence: “That outfit is a bit naff, isn’t it?”
Nippy: Cold or chilly. Describes weather that is cold or has a chill in the air.
Example sentence: “It’s a bit nippy outside; grab a jacket.”
Nowt: Nothing. A Northern English term for “nothing.”
Example sentence: “There’s nowt left in the fridge.”
Nutter: Crazy or insane person. Describes someone who is mentally unstable or eccentric.
Example sentence: “He’s a bit of a nutter, but he’s fun.”
On the lash: Going out drinking or partying. Describes the act of going out for a night of drinking and revelry.
Example sentence: “We’re on the lash this Friday night.”
Pants: Poor or disappointing. Describes something that is of low quality or unsatisfactory.
Example sentence: “That movie was pants; I didn’t enjoy it.”
Pied off: Rejected or ignored. Describes a situation where someone has been romantically rejected.
Example sentence: “She got pied off when he didn’t call.”
Pissed: Drunk. Describes a state of inebriation due to alcohol consumption.
Example sentence: “I got a bit pissed at the pub last night.”
Plastered: Drunk or intoxicated. Similar to “pissed,” indicates a high level of drunkenness.
Example sentence: “By midnight, he was absolutely plastered.”
Plonk: Cheap or inferior wine. Refers to inexpensive or low-quality wine.
Example sentence: “I’m not drinking that plonk; get me something better.”
Posh: Elegant or upper-class. Describes something or someone as being refined or sophisticated.
Example sentence: “That restaurant is a bit posh for my taste.”
Prat: Fool or idiot. A derogatory term used to insult someone’s intelligence.
Example sentence: “You’re acting like a right prat.”
Proper: Correct or appropriate. Describes something done in a correct or suitable manner.
Example sentence: “You did a proper job on that assignment.”
Quid: A pound sterling or money in general. A slang term for the British currency or money in general.
Example sentence: “Can you lend me a few quid?”
Rank: Disgusting or unpleasant. Describes something that is highly unappealing or repulsive.
Example sentence: “The smell in the garbage bin is rank.”
Rinsed: Exploited or taken advantage of. Describes a situation where someone has been used or manipulated.
Example sentence: “I got rinsed by that salesperson.”
Rubbish: Garbage or something of poor quality. Describes something that is of low quality or not worth considering.
Example sentence: “The movie was rubbish; I didn’t like it.”
Screwed: In trouble or facing difficulties. Describes a situation where someone is in trouble or facing negative consequences.
Example sentence: “If you don’t finish the project on time, we’re screwed.”
Skint: Without money or broke. Indicates a state of financial hardship or being without funds.
Example sentence: “I can’t go out; I’m skint this week.”
Skive: Avoiding work or responsibility. Describes the act of avoiding work or shirking responsibilities.
Example sentence: “I’m going to skive off work early today.”
Sloshed: Drunk or intoxicated. Similar to “hammered,” indicates a state of heavy inebriation.
Example sentence: “After a few cocktails, we were all sloshed.”
Snog: Kiss passionately. Describes a passionate or deep kiss.
Example sentence: “They were caught snogging behind the door.”
Sod: Expressing frustration or annoyance. A milder form of swearing, used to express frustration or irritation.
Example sentence: “Oh, sod it! I forgot my keys.”
Ta: Thank you. A shortened and informal way of expressing gratitude.
Example sentence: “Ta for helping me with the groceries.”
Take a punt: Take a risk or chance. Describes the act of taking a gamble or trying something uncertain.
Example sentence: “I’ll take a punt and apply for the job.”
Telling porkies: Telling lies or being deceitful. Describes the act of being dishonest or untruthful.
Example sentence: “I caught him telling porkies about his achievements.”
Tenner: A ten-pound note. Refers to a specific denomination of currency.
Example sentence: “Can you lend me a tenner until payday?”
That old chestnut: A familiar or clichéd story. Used to express boredom or irritation at hearing the same story repeatedly.
Example sentence: “Oh, not that old chestnut again!”
The offie: An off-license or a shop selling alcohol. Short for “off-license,” which is a store that sells alcoholic beverages for consumption off the premises.
Example sentence: “I’ll grab a few drinks from the offie on my way home.”
Throwing a wobbly: Having a tantrum or getting upset. Describes a situation where someone becomes emotionally distressed or throws a fit.
Example sentence: “He was throwing a wobbly when he lost the game.”
To leg it: To run away quickly or escape. Describes the act of fleeing or running away.
Example sentence: “The police arrived, and he had to leg it before they caught him.”
To nick: To steal or take something without permission. Describes the act of taking something unlawfully.
Example sentence: “He tried to nick a chocolate bar from the store, but got caught.”
Toff: A person who is perceived as upper-class or posh. Describes someone who is affluent and sophisticated.
Example sentence: “He’s such a toff with his fancy clothes and accent.”
Trollied: Extremely drunk or intoxicated. Similar to “hammered” and “sloshed,” indicating a high level of drunkenness.
Example sentence: “After the party, he was completely trollied and couldn’t walk straight.”
Twat: Offensive term for a foolish or annoying person. A vulgar insult for someone disliked.
Example sentence: “He’s acting like a complete twat; I can’t stand him.”
Waffle: To talk at length about something without making much sense. Describes the act of speaking in a rambling or unclear manner.
Example sentence: “He tends to waffle on about his theories without really saying anything.”
Wanker: A vulgar term for someone who masturbates, often used as an insult. A strong and offensive insult.
Example sentence: “He’s such a wanker; he never takes anything seriously.”
Wangle: To manipulate or obtain something through clever or deceitful means. Describes the act of achieving something through cunning or manipulation.
Example sentence: “He managed to wangle a free ticket to the concert from his friend.”
Wee: A Scottish slang word for small. Refers to something small or little.
Example sentence: “I want a wee drop of whiskey.”
However, if an English person says they need a wee it means they need to urinate!
Wellies: Wellington boots, a type of waterproof rubber boots. Practical footwear, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
Example sentence: “It’s muddy outside, so I’ll wear my wellies for the walk.”
Winding up: Teasing or provoking someone, often for amusement. Describes the act of teasing or joking with someone to get a reaction.
Example sentence: “He’s just winding you up; don’t take it too seriously.”
Yonks: A long and indefinite period of time, often used to express a significant duration or a considerable amount of time passing.
Example sentence: “I haven’t seen her in yonks; we should all catch up soon!”
You what: An informal expression used to ask someone to repeat or clarify what they just said. Used when someone doesn’t hear or understand something and is seeking clarification.
Example sentence: “He told me he quit his job, and I was like, ‘You what? Why would he do that?'”
You’re nicked: You’re arrested, often used by the police. A colloquial way of saying someone is being taken into custody.
Example sentence: “After a brief chase, they caught the suspect, and he heard, ‘You’re nicked!'”
Chuffed With What You’ve Learnt?
British slang adds a unique and lively flavour to everyday conversations, making them both engaging and entertaining (and sometimes harder to understand!).
Whether you’re having a chinwag with mates, grabbing some grub, or simply enjoying a cuppa, knowing the local lingo can make all the difference. So, embrace these expressions and have a proper good time using them. Cheers, and ta for reading!
Mastered British slang words? Check out these American slang words to expand your English slang vocabulary further!
James has been helping people teach English abroad for over twelve years. He’s traveled to over 30 countries, lived in 3, and taught English in Chile and online.
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