Irish slang is renowned for its distinctive charm and has gained international recognition through famous people such as Graham Norton and Liam Neeson. These unique expressions are trending globally, and many people, especially in the USA, are confused about their meanings. Are you familiar with Irish sayings? Continue for some of our favorites.
I’m Grand
One of the more common phrases in Ireland is, “I’m grand.” It’s used regularly and means, someone is doing just fine or is happy. Those who don’t speak English as a first language could easily be mistaken.
Craic
“Craic” is pronounced “crack” and means having fun or a good time. This can confuse Americans because they often say, “You crack me up,” which sounds the same but has a different meaning. It might take some time to get used to this difference.
Are You Okay?
US Americans are used to associating the phrase “Are you okay?” with their inner well-being. In Ireland, it means “What can I help you with?”. So when someone asks if “you are okay” after dinner, the waiter is probably trying to give you a hint for the check.
Have a Fag
This phrase will definitely confuse Americans; for Ireland and the UK, fag means having a cigarette and not an offensive insult.
Yer Man
When you hear “Yer man is outside causing a scene,” they don’t literally mean your man. The true meaning refers to a random person, as ‘Yer man’ is the same as saying “that guy/person.”
I Will, Yeah
This phrase proves that the Irish are both sarcastic and subtle. “I will, yeah” always means no. It is similar to when Americans say “yeah…. no,” but not as clear.
Yoke
Yoke (pronounced yolk) literally means “that thing.” You will usually hear this when someone talks about a random item that does not have much value, for example, give me that pen or pass me that towel, etc.
Langers
In America, they call getting drunk “wasted”. In Ireland, they got a little more creative. Langer actually means a fool or an idiot. “Langers” is the act of being drunk, another meaning of drunk.
Chipper
A chipper is a takeaway place that sells chips (French fries), fish, battered sausages, and other fried foods. After a night of partying and alcohol, everyone goes to a chipper for a midnight snack.
Tod
Tod means to be alone, and people say it when they are going out alone or just alone in general.
As Happy as Larry
People often say they or their friends are “As happy as Larry” when they have no worries or cares.
Manky
The word “Manky” describes something dirty. For example, “Their kitchen is manky.”
Acting the Maggot
If a person is “Acting the maggot,” it means they are messing around and not doing what they are supposed to.
Thick
Thick does not mean the size or value of something as it would in the US. In Ireland and the UK, thick means “Stupid.” It can also describe someone annoyed.
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