Vocabulary Lesson: Scotland Style

Here's a bit of Scottish vocabulary that I hear almost daily and that I hope to incorporate into my own use:

1) Cheers. This term is often used to greet someone, to say thank you, or to say goodbye. Contextual example: Someone is on the phone. Once the conversation is over they say, "Cheers!" rather than goodbye.

2) Aye. This term is used in a number of ways. This includes in a sort of manner as to sigh after bad news, in response to someone calling your name, or in agreeing with another person. Contextual example: "Can you believe that the Rangers won that game?!" "Aye, it is complete rubbish." or "Aye! I about jumped out of my seat!"

3) Hoover. A vacuum. Every vacuum. No matter if it is actually a Hoover brand. Contextual example: "I'll be there in a second after I'm done hoover-ing."

4) Brilliant. Used to describe how great something is. Contextual example: "That show was brilliant!"

5) Wee. A small amount. Contextual example: "It is a wee bit rainy outside today."

6) Cuppa. A cup of tea or coffee. Contextual example: "Would you join me for a cuppa?!"

7) Fancy. To describe how much you enjoy something. This can be used to describe people or objects. Contextual example: "You fancy that new American girl, eh? " ;)

8) Chips. Chips are what we would call french fries in the states. And what we would call chips are called Crisps here. Contextual example: "Would you like some fish and chips?"

9) Supper. The term supper is used to describe something that comes with chips. Contextual example: "We're having fish supper tonight." Aka...fish and chips.

10) Posh. This is not really Scottish, but is more British. It is used to describe something that is more upper class. It can be used to describe people or objects. Contextual Example: "That house is quite posh. It's not quite my style." (Posh Spice anyone?!)

11) Biscuit. A term for a cookie. Contextual example: "Digestives are my favorite biscuit in Scotland!" (Seriously...Digestives are AWESOME.)

12) Lad/Lass. A lad is a boy and a lass is a girl. Contextual example: "Aye, that new American lass is quite beautiful" or "Aye, this lad has grown to be quite tall." ;)

13) Rubbish. Term used to describe how bad something is or for garbage. Contextual example: "That football game was complete rubbish!"

14) Football. In the states, this would be called soccer. Here, it's football and it is a BIG deal. Contextual example: " Did you see the Manchester United football game last night?"


That's just a few of my favorites. I'm sure there will be more to come. Cheers!