Essential British English vocabulary for living, working or studying in the UK
Planning on visiting, working, or living in the UK? Navigating everyday British life can be a lot easier with the right phrases and vocabulary. In this blog post, we'll explore 35 essential English phrases that will help you not only survive but thrive in the UK. From casual exchanges with strangers to conversations with new colleagues and friends, these phrases will ensure you can communicate effectively.
If you’d like a copy of today’s lesson in PDF form, download the free PDF below.
Watch the video below for the full English lesson exploring 35 informal British English words and phrases.
1. In with a shout of something
An informal phrase meaning you have a chance of something happening.
Example: I think I might be in with a shout of getting the job.
2. All over the place
Used to describe something disorganised or confused.
Example: My thoughts are all over the place today.
3. Pop/Nip somewhere
Means to go somewhere quickly or for a short time.
Example: I'm just going to nip to the shops to pick up something for dinner.
4. Cheers
Commonly used to mean thank you or as a toast.
Example: Here’s the document you asked for – cheers!
5. Do you fancy?
Means would you like.
Example: Do you fancy getting something to eat after work?
6. You alright?
An informal way of asking someone how they are.
Example: Morning! You alright?
7. Where’s the loo?
A common way of asking where the toilet is.
Example: Excuse me, where’s the loo?
8. Brilliant
Means excellent or very good.
Example: I got the job! – Brilliant!
9. Chuffed to bits
Means really pleased.
Example: I got the job! I’m chuffed to bits.
10. Blimey
An expression of surprise.
Example: Blimey, it’s a bit cold today!
11. Can I have a go?
Means can I try?
Example: My brother got an Oculus Rift. Can I have a go?
12. No worries
Means no problem or it doesn’t matter.
Example: Thanks for helping me – No worries!
13. Peckish
Means a little hungry.
Example: I’m a bit peckish. Do you fancy getting a bite to eat?
14. Starving
Means very hungry.
Example: I haven’t eaten all day. I’m starving.
15. Gutted
Means really disappointed.
Example: I was gutted that I couldn’t get Taylor Swift tickets.
16. Gobsmacked
Means speechless with surprise.
Example: I was gobsmacked when I heard the news.
17. It’s tipping/ chucking it down
Means it’s raining very heavily.
Example: It’s been tipping down all morning.
18. I’m off
Means I’m leaving.
Example: I’m off now. See you tomorrow.
19. It’s on me
Means I’ll pay for it.
Example: Don’t worry about the bill. It’s on me.
20. Pull someone’s leg
Means joking or teasing someone.
Example: Don’t worry, I’m just pulling your leg.
21. I Haven’t Got a Clue
Means I don’t know.
Example: Do you know where my keys are? – I haven’t got a clue.
22. I’m Easy
Means I’m flexible or indifferent.
Example: What do you fancy for dinner tonight? – I’m easy, you choose.
23. Quid
A casual term for one British pound.
Example: How much does it cost? – That’s five quid.
24. Rubbish
Means nonsense or poor quality.
Example: He was talking a load of rubbish.
25. Spot on
Means exactly right.
Example: The weather forecast was spot on.
26. I’m shattered
Means I’m completely exhausted.
Example: It’s been a long day at work. I’m shattered.
27. I’ll give you a ring
Means I’ll call you.
Example: I’ll give you a ring when I find out the answer.
28. Bits and bobs
Means various small items.
Example: I need to go to the shop to buy a few bits and bobs.
29. I’m knackered
Means very tired.
Example: I’ve been studying all night. I’m knackered.
30. Sorted
Means taken care of or resolved.
Example: Is everything ready for the trip? – Yep, all sorted.
31. Take the mickey/piss
Means making fun of someone or taking advantage.
Example: He said it cost 50 quid. Is he taking the piss?
32. Throw a wobbly
Means losing control or going mad.
Example: He threw a wobbly when he discovered someone had scratched his car.
33. Waffle
Means to talk at length without getting to the point.
Example: He was waffling on for ages. I wish he’d just get to the point.
34. Faff around
Means to waste time or be inefficient.
Example: Stop faffing around and get ready.
35. Budge Up
Means to move slightly to make space.
Example: Can you budge up a bit so I can sit down?