If you’re an aspiring Anglophile looking for some new lingo to help fuel your love for all things British, here you are.
Learning slang is a great way to sound natural. This is exactly what I teach, so you can feel confident when talking with native speakers.
But here’s the thing, slang and idioms aren’t always easy to translate. They often reflect culture, humour, or habits that don’t exist in other languages. That’s why direct translation doesn’t always work. Still, using a few idiomatic expressions here and there is one of the best ways to sound more fluent and more like a native.
You don’t need to use idioms all the time, but recognising them will make your life easier, especially in informal chats, TV shows, or emails from British colleagues. It’s also a fun way to connect with the language on a deeper level. Think of idioms as the seasoning that brings your English to life. Without them, it can sound a bit plain.
Of course, context is everything. Some idioms sound charming over a coffee but odd in a job interview or in a meeting. That’s why I always help my students learn not just the phrase, but when (and when not) to use it. The goal isn’t to impress with fancy expressions, it’s to sound natural, relaxed, and clear. And maybe even raise a smile.
Brits are known for their love of wordplay, understatement and a bit of cheeky humour — and idioms fit right into that. Playing with language is part of everyday life. It’s a way to be witty without being too direct, to soften awkward topics, or just to have a laugh. That’s why you’ll often hear expressions like “bit under the weather” or “Bob’s your uncle” — they’re colourful, often amusing, and make the language feel more human.
Here are 10 popular slang terms that Brits use in everyday conversation.
- Knackered
Used to describe extreme tiredness.
Example: “I am absolutely knackered after working all day.” - Gutted
Means feeling very disappointed or upset.
Example: “He’s absolutely gutted that he didn’t get the job.” - Gobsmacked
Used when someone is completely surprised.
Example: “I was gobsmacked when she told me the news.” - Cheers
Can mean both “thank you” and a toast when drinking.
Example: “Cheers for your help!” - Cock up
A mistake or something that has gone wrong.
Example: “I really cocked up that presentation.” - Blinding
Means something is excellent.
Example: “That was a blinding performance!” - Lost the plot
Means someone is acting irrationally or has become overly angry.
Example: “She completely lost the plot when she saw the mess.” - Ace
Used to describe something outstanding or to mean doing exceptionally well.
Example: “He aced his final exam.” - Taking the piss
To mock, tease, or make fun of something or someone.
Example: “Are you taking the piss? That can’t be true!” - Chuffed
Feeling pleased or proud about something.
Example: “I’m absolutely chuffed with my new job.”
Now you’re ready to impress with some British slang.
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