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Ah, Scotland. For me, the most beautiful country in the world. And Edinburgh, the capital city, is my favorite place to explore. The bagpipes, the castles, the green, green hills covered with heather in the summer and the language all pierce my heart. If you’ve ever watched the popular series Outlander, you’ve perhaps appreciated listening to the soft Scottish brogue too.
It takes me about 24 hours, in the country, to begin to understand that wonderful Scottish accent. And the phrases and slang are both endearing and amusing. Sit in a pub and listen to the locals talking to each other and you’ll understand why it’s one of my favorite things to do while touring the country.
These fun Scottish expressions and what they mean will help you decipher what’s said.
Fun Scottish Expressions and What They Mean
Although the Scots speak English, their language is influenced by Gaelic, an older language that harkens back to the 13th century. Like other countries, there are different dialects present, from the northern Highlands to the southern Borders. However, all Scots are experts at turning a phrase, from humorous slang to hilarious cutting insults.
Lang may yer lum leek
While this phrase may sound inappropriate, it literally means “long may your chimney smoke”. It’s used as a toast to health, wishing one a long and healthy life.
Failing means yer playin’
An encouraging expression that means “at least you are trying”.
Whit’s fur ye’ll no go by ye
This expression translates to “what’s for you will no go by you”, meaning what’s meant to be, will be. I love this one.
Haste ye back
Used as a farewell, this one means “come back with speed” or “hurry back”.
Ah dinnae ken
Heard frequently in Scotland and on the series Outlander, this expression means “I don’t/didn’t know”. I use ah dinnae ken often when I’m speaking aloud to myself.
We’re a Jock Tamson’s bairns
This one means we are all God’s children. No one is better than anyone else. We are all equals.
Noo jist haud on
No, just hold on, meaning wait a minute, take your time or you are speaking too fast.
Is the cat deid?
This unusual expression means, “your trousers are too short”. Why, ah dinnae ken!
Haud yer wheesht
If you hear this expression, you need to shut up!
Och, it’s a dreich day
A reference to the weather, this means it’s a cold, wet, gloomy day. Scotland definitely has it’s share of dreich days.
I’m fair puckled
I’m out of breath. Try this phrase next time you climb flights of stairs!
Gonnae no’ da that
Don’t do that!
Yer bum’s oot the windae
Literally, “your butt is out the window”. This one makes me laugh because I get such a visual image. It means you are lying or exaggerating.
Ma heid’s mince
“My head is mince”, meaning I’m a bit confused or mixed up.
Mony a mickle maks a muckle
I love this phrase too. Say it fast several times. It translates to “small amounts of savings soon build up to large amounts.” What a great saying to write on a travel savings jar!
Aye mate, nae bother
Yes, friend, no problem. I absolutely love the Scottish “aye”.
That’s pure boggin
When something is boggin, it’s disgusting. That’s pure boggin means “that’s really disgusting”.
She’s a bonnie lass
You might know this one, as we use bonnie somewhat in the US. It means “she’s a beautiful woman”.
Dinnae be a wee clipe
This one means “don’t be a tattle tell”.
Yer oot yer face
Another one that makes me laugh, this one means “you are extremely drunk”.
Mad wae it
This means “drunk”, as in Ian wiz so mad wae it.
Och, yer talking oot yer arse
You might guess this one! It means you are talking nonsense or making something up.
Peely-wally
This expression is used when someone doesn’t look 100% his best or seems out of sorts. Yer lookin’ a bit peely-wally.
Wur tearin’ the tartan
When enjoying a riveting, gossipy conversation, people are tearin’ the tartan.
Dinnae fash yerself
Outlander fans are familiar with this phrase. Jamie utters it to Claire frequently. It means “don’t worry yourself” as in, don’t get stressed or annoyed over a situation. Jamie calls Claire Sasanach. In case you wonder, that word translates to “English born” or it can refer to someone born in the Scottish lowlands or borders as opposed to the Highlands.
Which of the Fun Scottish Expressions is Your Favorite?
Did you pick out a favorite expressions? Truthfully, I love all of them and use several, privately. I enjoy Scottish films. The background scenery, the city shots and especially hearing the language all tug me energetically back toward Scotland.
Reading these expressions as I typed the words, I could mentally “hear” them spoken with a Scottish accent. It makes me feel homesick. I trust travel restrictions will ease someday and I’ll get back there.
I’ll leave you with one more fun phrase.
Better tae bust oot than rust oot.
Translation: Live every moment of life to the absolute fullest before you die.
Aye!
Other fun posts in this series:
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