The United Kingdom is diverse, with a wide range of accents and dialects. While there are many regional variations in the language, some terms and phrases are commonly associated with Northerners in the UK, particularly in the North of England. Check out these everyday terms that have international visitors flummoxed!
Owt” and “Nowt”
These words are used to mean “anything” and “nothing” in Northern dialects. For example, “Did you find owt interesting?” means “Did you find anything interesting?”
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“Ee by gum”
This is a Yorkshire expression used to show surprise or emphasis, similar to “Oh my goodness” or “Wow.”
“Mardy”
Demonstrated by Alf. A word used in parts of the North, particularly in the East Midlands, to describe someone who is in a bad mood or sulking.
“Scran”
A Northern term for food or a meal. For example, “Let’s go and get some scran.”
“Chuffed”
This means pleased or delighted. If someone is “dead chuffed,” they are very happy.
“Canny”
A word often used in the North East of England to mean nice, pleasant, or clever. “She’s a canny lass.”
“Brew”
In the North, people often refer to a cup of tea as a “brew.” “I’ll put the kettle on and make us a brew.”
“Ginnel”
A narrow passageway or alley, especially in Northern dialects, often used in the North West and Yorkshire.
“Bairn”
A term for a child, commonly used in the North East, including in places like Newcastle.
“Lug ‘ole”
This means ear. For example, “Open your lug ‘ole” means “please listen.”
“Aye” and “Nay”
These are Northern English equivalents of “yes” and “no.” “Aye, I’ll be there” means “Yes, I’ll be there.”
“It’s Raining Cats and Dogs”
It’s raining heavily, often accompanied by strong winds and a downpour.
“Champion”
A word often used in the North East to mean good or excellent. “That pie was champion!”
Also See Terms Americans Need To Know When Visiting London
Where To Find The Beatles in Liverpool
10 Places to Find Harry Potter in London
Sarah Christie is a craft, food, cruise, and family travel blogger Extraordinary Chaos, Cruising For All and Mini Travellers. Known for her unique perspective and ability to find beauty in chaos, Sarah designs and creates craft projects as well as creating recipes for people who want to cook from scratch the easy way. Whilst also exploring family travel and how to navigate it.