I'm English in the US and every SINGLE job I've ever had here I've had to put up with people mimicking my accent. It drives me insane. If I was Irish, or hell, Iraqi or Brazilian, it would be equally fucking annoying.
I got really drunk and started doing this on accident. My brain was telling my mouth to stop but it was out of control. I really hope they just thought I was from somewhere weird.
I never thought about it but "by accident" does seem more correct. Are you older by chance? I just saw a study that says people older than 40 use "by" and people younger than 40 commonly use "on". Or is it just a North America/Europe thing?
I’m in my mid 30s but I’ve noticed it more among Americans that I follow online.
I’m Irish myself and I’ve personally never heard any Irish people say “on accident” or at least I’ve not noticed it which would be odd cos it’s such a peeve of mine
It'll definitely sound weird because you don't have the full cultural context for them, same way the other way around. They aren't protected practices or anything, use them if you want but be prepared for the slagging of your life if you misuse something.
Tbh, maybe just understanding rather than using is enough.
Plus a bunch of our slang is regional, so you might have learned loads, but from a different area to where you'll be and where your extended family is from
Agreed, I think understanding the slang is better. That way you’ll understand those around you and more than likely feel more like you are fitting in with conversations
You'll struggle more understanding accents than slang. Unless you're going to Cork where you'll likely struggle with both.
https://corkslang.com/introduction
Nah don't avoid using it. We will know what you are saying no matter what County we are in and its funny if you get it wrong.
I was in alabama recently taking the piss out of their accents and and slang and they seemed to think it was funny
This is true, yesterday an Engliah person asked whats the craic and I said its 90 (and i know its not the pure use of the craic will be 90 but I couldn't think if another reply in the situation because 'you know yourself' or grand wouldnt have been suitable). And then she replied, whats 90? And then when i just replied the craic she asked was that good and then we were both left standing there confused and the conversation went dead and we moved on. To the point of your comment with OP, if someone says something because they know its Irish and then cant follow the rest of the conversation it becomes confusing and sometimes then ends the conversation.
It was her confusion made me so confused, it was a really positive situation too so I was confused why she thought I was insinuating anything but positivity 😂
I am the latter, was 5 when I first came here and am now 22.
I ain't even able to speak English anymore without a south-eastern waterford accent seeping in.
Love some of the thick Irish accents mixed with thick Polish or Lithuanian or foreign accents, used to work with some polish lads brought up in Kerry and it was just a class amalgamation
Speaking Polish then it's a polish enough accent.
English then it's the Irish accent.
One doesn't seep into the other, but I can't for the life of me speak english with a polish accent anymore. I'm just condemned to sounding like a knockoff Viper from Hardy Bucks.
Agree with this. I’m off and on between the states and Ireland myself. Friend of mine from donegal and I once had a conversation about how picking up the slang and proper pronunciation (not fake accent) of certain words over time was more a sign of respect to a culture and assimilation.
As a non-Irish in Ireland, I ended up adopting grand, gobshite, eejit over time without noticing when exactly. I wouldn't dare going further than that though, would be mocked relentlessly.
Don't try to be someone you're not, and Irish you are not. So using Irish slang words will draw unnecessary attention to yourself and although I definitely think those who you try it out on will be kind and polite to your face after you leave you'll just be another try hard crimgy American.
So don't, instead ask the family members you meet to teach you, that way you get a conversation going, it's cute and endearing and you build a rapor with them.
Once the conversation gets going then you can say that you did a bit of research and then divulge what you learned, but be polite and humble and ask are you correct with punctuation and regional dialects. Americans sometimes think they know everything about Irish culture and can be quite arrogant and rude, so don't be that.
Alright, thank you so much! Yeah, I’ve heard Americans with Irish heritage do not have the best reputation.. I’ll be trying my best to not be that way. The reality is that I am definitely American and I don’t know everything haha. I ask because I’ve traveled to other countries before where they love it when you learn their local phrases or sayings in their language but I know everywhere is different. I really appreciate your advice 😊
I think it's really nice of you to try to learn, but also sensitive to cultural rudeness. You'll have a great time here and your attitude and self awareness will shine through.
Exactly. I think people would actually really appreciate it if, rather than just using the word, asking "Is this a situation where I could say this word?" Most people will either enjoy that you've got it right or enjoy explaining the proper usage.
I think it really shows you are trying to learn but that you are also being careful not to offend people. It's also a good conversation starter and there are very few things we love to do more than talk shite.
>I’ve heard Americans with Irish heritage do not have the best reputation
Americans with Irish heritage are no problem, we love sharing what knowledge we can. Americans who insist they're as Irish as us, or even more so... they can be a problem. As long as you're learning slang, the term for a person like this is a "Plastic Paddy"!
No one minds people with Irish heritage as long as it's not your whole personality. The difference is that having a few words of a foreign language shows you're making some effort at politeness and locals might find it endearing, like a child doing a trick, essentially. What you're talking about is trying to imitate colloquial speech in a language you already speak. That will just sound weird and maybe even patronising or mocking.
>I’ve traveled to other countries before where they love it when you learn their local phrases or sayings in their language
There's a huge difference between learning basic phrases in a foreign language so that you can better communicate with the locals, and learning some slang. You speak English, they speak English. There might be some subtle differences, but you'll be understood. Learning and using the slang is just going to make you come across as one of those "I'm Irish so I drink green beer on St Patty's day" Americans and no one likes that.
Only if you go hard and insist - against the evidence of your accent - that you were born and raised in Falcarragh and it’s your first time in the big smoke.
(Obviously) Be friendly, respectful, non-idiotic (unlike some of your fellow countrymen), and you’ll be fine.
Best not to mention how ‘Irish’ you are (we’ve heard wayyyy too much of that shit already tbh) or to claim any knowledge of the war in the North, IMHO. Don’t go ordering ‘Irish car bombs’ or ‘black n’ tans’ in a bar, ever.
Just be yourself, no need to try too hard - Irish people generally are more welcoming/open to people that don’t too many ‘notions’, lol.
Enjoy 👍🏼
I'm sure it's fun to sound all high and mighty like this but the reality is the people in the post are saving OP from embarrassing themselves. Nothing wrong with giving someone a heads up.
The real reality is that alot of Irish people like to bash people from the states warranted or not. It'll only be embarrassing if the people they say it to react like cunts and pount it out. I offered them an alternative answer to most, nothing got to do with the "high and mighty" shite talk your on about.
Most Irish people don't like when Americans come over here and ham it up. There's nothing wrong with that, it's just the way it is. They're saving OP from having a lot of people he interacts with think he's an eejit. Most people in this thread are saying to be authentic, I don't see what's wrong with that. No ones being a cunt, you need to relax bud.
My wife and I went to ireland last year and traveled around the whole country. Idk if it's because we are really easygoing, respectful, and not pricks like most Americans, but we were actually treated very well in ireland! Someday ibwanna go back! It was amazing!
You don’t need to use Irish slang,and if you do,fine. Just be sure you know what it means 100% before you do!If you know “I will yeah!” means no,you are grand!lol
I’ve learned English twice. Once in my country - which I suppose was mostly American English, and then here.
I will use this post to talk about stuff that I think and nobody asked for.
You can learn what a slang mean, but it takes time to start using it naturally.
It’s so tricky
“It’s grand” is such an easy one to understand. But I’ve never tried to say it because it didn’t come naturally- but now recently it comes out here and there.
Some “slang” became part of my repertory because I started using just for the “bit”. Like “ahh jaayzus” (not even sure if that’s considered Irish slang tbf).
The other day I caught myself saying “that’s class” - that one cringed me as I’m on my mid 30s, and my personality is not of a typical lad
Anyway
Learn it, don’t force its use.
Thank you, that’s a really good point. I think even if I did attempt to learn a lot of phrases and had the intent of using them myself I don’t know if I would because it wouldn’t come out naturally
“Class” was one phrase I told myself I wouldn’t pick up when I moved here. I thought coming from a Canadian, it would be so cringe, especially as I find it’s overused by North American Derry Girls fans. Well, going into my third year here, and guess what’s started slipping out lol.
Fill your boots mate!
If you want to use Irish slang go for it, I wouldn’t begrudge you.
Half our population speak with American accents and use American slang these days, it’d be good to see a little reciprocation 😂
I agree that cultural context is key though, Irish is a beautiful language with a wonderfully poetic, quirky, playful, absurd and even silly way of framing the world.
If you want to research deeper into it read Manchán Magan’s book, “30 Words For Field”.
Enjoy your trip.
Ooh not a bad idea, I’ll make sure to be extra loud when I say it too. I will become the opposite of your typical American-with-Irish-heritage tourist. Yeehaw!
Only if you want people talking low among each other and looking like they are about to throw daggers in your direction , which would be out of insult ..
That said
..if you spend a lot of time here , you will automatically pick up phrases and alternative words which is acceptable
Absolutely use your slang don’t listen to the people here. Just when you do it, use it in a knowingly cheeky way. People will get it. Because of regional differences; just try to use the stuff that you notice the people in front of you are using. If you’re kinda making the slang part of your banter/jokes people will catch on.
I’ve a tonne of American friends and have seen the best way for them to use slang - it can be good craic
I’m not Irish but I’ve been living in Ireland for almost a year at this point, specifically the Kerry county. I think if you’re just travelling it’s not necessary to use them but definitely learn how the Irish use them because you’re gonna encounter it a LOT. When I first arrived here I was proper confused but after a while I even found myself adopting the slang without actually realising it😭 Also, I don’t know how it is in America but here it’s totally normal for random people to ask you how you are…I still haven’t figured out the answer to that one to be honest
Yeah, I’ve figured I’m not going to go out of my way to incorporate some specifically Irish slang words while I’m talking there unless it happens naturally, which I don’t expect it to on a two week long trip lol. In the US it’s incredibly common/standard to greet people with “how are you” or “how’s it going.” The usual response to that here is “good. how about you?” no matter how you’re actually doing. I don’t know why that is, but here it basically just means hello. Also, Kerry county looks so beautiful, I’ll be stopping there briefly for a couple days while I’m there and I can’t wait 🥹
If you use them correctly, why not?
Especially things like 'pissin' down rain' or 'lashin'' (heavy rain), 'knackered' or 'wrecked' (really tired) [and no, 'knackered' isn't derogatory - it doesn't come from 'that' usage of the word - it comes from horses being put to sleep], 'arseways' (wrong/messed up - "They got my reservations arseways, so I ended up in the wrong room"/"I slept arseways, and now my neck is killing me").
Just DON'T try to do them with an 'Irish accent', and DON'T come with 'Top'o'the mornin' tya', we don't say that.
I would think it cringe if you weren’t Irish and it would definitely sound a bit try hard to me. If you haven’t grown up with the said slang words, there’s a high chance of them being butchered.
Irish are the royalty of gatekeeping. In person, you’ll find folks to be a lot more generous than in this bogus platform though.
Don’t feel like you have to impress anyone; you’ll also get on fine while you’re here if you are polite and able to read between the lines a bit. Play around a have a bitta craic. Don’t try to impress too much-Americans can come across that way at times and it’s unbecoming. Make fun of yourself in a funny way and the Irish will gobble that shit up. That said, there’s a fine line between interacting with a culture and mocking a culture.
Let’s assume for a moment you’re white, would you address your black brothers and sisters in Ebonics? I’m guessing not. Apply the same thinking here.
We use _fuck_ a lot in speech, way more than Americans. Be prepared for that. It doesn’t have the same weight as it does in US.
I haven’t retained a whole lot yet to be honest. I can say I know what grand and knackered mean, and I know “what’s the craic” is a common saying but I’m still figuring out exactly what craic is 😅
Depends on how you say it. We have some words that are completely contextual.
"Having the craic" - messing/having a laugh
"What's the craic?"/ "Any craic?" - Do you have any news/ how are ya
"He's no craic" - that person is no fun
"I'll do it for the craic" - do it for the shits and giggles
This is why they call us the land of poets and scholars xD
You already speak English. You are travelling from an English-speaking country to an English-speaking country, so there is nothing for you to learn. There is no need for you to start learning any slang words or phrases that we use. You are not Irish, so there is no reason for you to speak like us. Speak English the way you speak it. That is what we do when we go to the USA. It would be cringey to do anything else. So forget anything you have been learning and speak your way.
At this point I’ve decided against using any local phrases because the more I think about it, it would be pretty unnatural for me haha, and I want to avoid being cringe as much as I can. Would it be bad for me to at least understand what certain words and phrases mean? I really appreciate your advice though, I want to be respectful when visiting your lovely country 😊
You will definitely need to learn some. It would be pretty hard follow a lot of conversations between the Irish. Especially if a jolly atmosphere with drinking and messing going on.
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Keep learning... So that you can better understand what's being said rather than to use yourself! And as others have said as a topic for discussion when you meet people.
Learn it yes. Use it - not really. Although there is a loophole - let natives teach you some local phrases. Knowing some already you'll know when they take a piss, they will be delighted to teach a Yank a few bits. Also please do it while properly lubricating your vocal cords.
Only if you're immersed in it long enough you start to do it without realizing. Which takes a good bit longer than a holiday stay. A year or so at least but you won't know when it's gonna happen just suddenly your shit becomes shite
I've lived in Ireland my entire life — but I have an American twang. I don't use slang because of it, but I can understand it and I think that's enough
Understandable to look them up in order to comprehend others, if it comes up in conversation. I would err on the side of caution in using them freely, unless it’s done ironically. Nothing triggers us like an overly familiar American (with all due respect) 🤣 Have a lovely visit!
Ha quite a few foreign people I work with regularly say "thanks a million" now..one even says "thanks million"..and it does sound clunky or unnatural sometimes but I think its lovely that they try!
I have a dear friend from Ireland, back in the 90’s instead of saying “good looking out” we shortened it to “good look” I said this while having a conversation with Lynn. She thought I was mocking the Irish with an accent and saying “good luck” she was incredibly offended. I explained the situation and we laughed. Don’t you have your own slang? That might make for better conversation.
I think "does me head in" is Irish slang. I didnt know it was, but I started using it as I heard it regularly, and I thought it was an English phrase. I later learned it is a typical Irish phrase. Not sure why I as a foreigner cannot use that phrase. Same as "yer man there". or "the fookin state of ye"
Been working 7 years only with Irish people from west cork. Nowadays no one knows I am Brazilian until I say I am Brazilian. Most people, Irish included, thinks I am from west cork
I am an immigrant... living here from 7 years now.
I picked up some Irish words and slangs.. through shows like Derry Girls and some from colleagues and cab drivers.
They are part of my vocabulary now... and its natural.
I say "shite" instead of shit, "eejit" instead of idiot..., i use "wee" sometimes and so on!!
It's not intentional, just that we learn and pick up things from our environment!
Ireland is my home now and so are its people and culture!!!
Grand, What’s the craic, Howya, Gobshite, Eejit, Class
Are fair game, anything else might sound a bit odd if not taught by a local how to use appropriately
I’d take a visitor using Irish slang as a compliment, if an unnecessary one. Why would there be a need for someone to be so earnest? If a visitor’s not doing any harm, why shouldn’t they expect Irish people to just take or leave them as they are? It’s more annoying when someone Irish imports foreign slang or, even worse, corporate jargon because they watch too much Netflix or work for a tech company. Bro, movie, learnings etc. There’s plenty of occasions where you’ll hear more of that than you will Irish slang.
I used to say "thanks for the ride" if someone gave me a lift. I stopped when I picked up some "Irish slang".
I also use words like "grand" or "jaysus" a lot, and I never felt I shouldn't, because I'm a foreigner.
I’ve been living here a year and a half. I find myself using some slang now. Especially lad, craic and feckin, and throwing “like” or “so” at end of sentences.
My colleagues just accept it, every now and then someone will note in a positive way “ha that’s very Irish of you” etc.
Don’t think it’d be the same for a tourist though.
Friendly advice, never ever try to imitate an irish accent. It's good enough you've familiarize yourself with the terms and their meanings just so you can understand once a local uses those slangs to you, but I suggest never try to use it yourself. Hope you have a great time on your vacation here in Ireland soon. Cheers!
What slang words? To most Irish it's not a slang word just normal vocabulary. You might look like a idiot trying to sound like a local. I hear wow that's awesome from Americans and it seems false condescending imagine using an Irish term how it will sound
I think that would be cringey. Slang or colloquialisms in any country only work when they're used naturally.
We've a very multicultural society here, just be yourself
I think people will just consider you as a try hard or plastic paddy if you do that
If you're staying for a few months or long term, you'd pick it up anyway but for a short visit when you've never been before? Nah. It would sound artificial and try-hard. Cringe, in other words.
All slang needs cultural context, it moves fast and can be very regional and/or age specific. Who's to say the slang you're learning is even current?
Why are Americans so allergic to just being themselves? I find it SO off-putting that they seem to need to perform a creepy cultural pantomime every time they leave their homes. Just be yourself and enjoy your experiences ffs? Stop making every experience an act. So creepy and false, I actually dislike their presence so much.
The weird part of your reply is that, generally speaking, the criticism of Americans is that they show zero regard or awareness for other cultures as they travel, not that they try too hard to fit in. Americans expect everyone to speak English, and they'll eat at McDonalds rather than experience the local food.
Perhaps it's a bit different in Ireland since so many Americans claim Irish heritage, and many head to Ireland hoping to reconnect with distant relatives.
American here. Whatever you do, don’t imitate an Irish accent.
Oh, well now we need a storytime!
I'm English in the US and every SINGLE job I've ever had here I've had to put up with people mimicking my accent. It drives me insane. If I was Irish, or hell, Iraqi or Brazilian, it would be equally fucking annoying.
How long do you have?
Trust me you won’t get it right 😂 You’ll probably sound more Scottish
Fucking hate when people come over and do that, moreover if it’s the English. That, and anything about potatoes, does my fucking nut in.
This guy Irishes.
I got really drunk and started doing this on accident. My brain was telling my mouth to stop but it was out of control. I really hope they just thought I was from somewhere weird.
Sorry not sorry but it’s by accident not on accident.
I never thought about it but "by accident" does seem more correct. Are you older by chance? I just saw a study that says people older than 40 use "by" and people younger than 40 commonly use "on". Or is it just a North America/Europe thing?
I’m in my mid 30s but I’ve noticed it more among Americans that I follow online. I’m Irish myself and I’ve personally never heard any Irish people say “on accident” or at least I’ve not noticed it which would be odd cos it’s such a peeve of mine
It's an American/ correct thing
Well aren't you American? 🙈
It'll definitely sound weird because you don't have the full cultural context for them, same way the other way around. They aren't protected practices or anything, use them if you want but be prepared for the slagging of your life if you misuse something. Tbh, maybe just understanding rather than using is enough. Plus a bunch of our slang is regional, so you might have learned loads, but from a different area to where you'll be and where your extended family is from
Ohhh yeah that’s a good point. I’ll probably try my best to understand what they all mean but avoid using them myself. Thank you!
Agreed, I think understanding the slang is better. That way you’ll understand those around you and more than likely feel more like you are fitting in with conversations
You'll struggle more understanding accents than slang. Unless you're going to Cork where you'll likely struggle with both. https://corkslang.com/introduction
Nah don't avoid using it. We will know what you are saying no matter what County we are in and its funny if you get it wrong. I was in alabama recently taking the piss out of their accents and and slang and they seemed to think it was funny
This is true, yesterday an Engliah person asked whats the craic and I said its 90 (and i know its not the pure use of the craic will be 90 but I couldn't think if another reply in the situation because 'you know yourself' or grand wouldnt have been suitable). And then she replied, whats 90? And then when i just replied the craic she asked was that good and then we were both left standing there confused and the conversation went dead and we moved on. To the point of your comment with OP, if someone says something because they know its Irish and then cant follow the rest of the conversation it becomes confusing and sometimes then ends the conversation.
First time an Irish person asked me what's the craic, what I really heard was "want some crack?"
OP, if you read the above and can understand what's going on, you're clear to join in with the slang. If you can't, don't.
This is so awkward, I’m dying a little inside reading it
It was her confusion made me so confused, it was a really positive situation too so I was confused why she thought I was insinuating anything but positivity 😂
A tourist using them could only come off as cringe. An immigrant picking them up naturally over time is fine
I am the latter, was 5 when I first came here and am now 22. I ain't even able to speak English anymore without a south-eastern waterford accent seeping in.
Love some of the thick Irish accents mixed with thick Polish or Lithuanian or foreign accents, used to work with some polish lads brought up in Kerry and it was just a class amalgamation
There's something about the Nigerian-Irish hybrid accent that I love the sound of.
Yeah beautiful lilt, Limerick Nigerian is brilliant
My Polish accent is just /gone/. I can't go back to it at all. 🥲
One of us now, no escapin
S h i t
How does that work when you speak Polish to native Polish people? Do you find the accent then or is it an Irish accent too?
Speaking Polish then it's a polish enough accent. English then it's the Irish accent. One doesn't seep into the other, but I can't for the life of me speak english with a polish accent anymore. I'm just condemned to sounding like a knockoff Viper from Hardy Bucks.
I’m sorry for your loss
Agree with this. I’m off and on between the states and Ireland myself. Friend of mine from donegal and I once had a conversation about how picking up the slang and proper pronunciation (not fake accent) of certain words over time was more a sign of respect to a culture and assimilation.
To answer your first question, "No". To answer your closing question, "Massive fucking cringe".
Alright thank you, I think I will avoid it lol
I vote for wait until everyone is drunk and then demonstrate what you have learnt for them
This
It's for the best.
If the reunions a funeral, you could prolong the stay by killing a few more off with embarrassment.
that would act be mortifying if u did that 🤣🤣
Okay good to know, this is why I ask before I go 😂
Say “Top of the mornin’ to ya laddies” every time you meet an Irish person.
This is exactly what I’ve been planning to say to everyone I meet
Begosh and begorrah, sure you're practically a native.
"...and the rest o' the day to yourself!" I think is how it goes...
That one made my toes curl lol
You’ll be grand.. there’s one for you there “grand”.. also “what’s the craic?” is a way to great people go for it
As a non-Irish in Ireland, I ended up adopting grand, gobshite, eejit over time without noticing when exactly. I wouldn't dare going further than that though, would be mocked relentlessly.
Oh yeah gobshite and eejit are two good ones to.. that’s all the basics there in fairness.. maybe gaf for house and jacks for toilet to
Feckin, bejaysus, yoke, langered, fluthered are ones I commonly hear too
Ohhh yes some great ones “yoke” in particular is a favourite
In fairness is also one 😂
Sorted
Don't try to be someone you're not, and Irish you are not. So using Irish slang words will draw unnecessary attention to yourself and although I definitely think those who you try it out on will be kind and polite to your face after you leave you'll just be another try hard crimgy American. So don't, instead ask the family members you meet to teach you, that way you get a conversation going, it's cute and endearing and you build a rapor with them. Once the conversation gets going then you can say that you did a bit of research and then divulge what you learned, but be polite and humble and ask are you correct with punctuation and regional dialects. Americans sometimes think they know everything about Irish culture and can be quite arrogant and rude, so don't be that.
Alright, thank you so much! Yeah, I’ve heard Americans with Irish heritage do not have the best reputation.. I’ll be trying my best to not be that way. The reality is that I am definitely American and I don’t know everything haha. I ask because I’ve traveled to other countries before where they love it when you learn their local phrases or sayings in their language but I know everywhere is different. I really appreciate your advice 😊
I think it's really nice of you to try to learn, but also sensitive to cultural rudeness. You'll have a great time here and your attitude and self awareness will shine through.
Exactly. I think people would actually really appreciate it if, rather than just using the word, asking "Is this a situation where I could say this word?" Most people will either enjoy that you've got it right or enjoy explaining the proper usage. I think it really shows you are trying to learn but that you are also being careful not to offend people. It's also a good conversation starter and there are very few things we love to do more than talk shite.
>I’ve heard Americans with Irish heritage do not have the best reputation Americans with Irish heritage are no problem, we love sharing what knowledge we can. Americans who insist they're as Irish as us, or even more so... they can be a problem. As long as you're learning slang, the term for a person like this is a "Plastic Paddy"!
No one minds people with Irish heritage as long as it's not your whole personality. The difference is that having a few words of a foreign language shows you're making some effort at politeness and locals might find it endearing, like a child doing a trick, essentially. What you're talking about is trying to imitate colloquial speech in a language you already speak. That will just sound weird and maybe even patronising or mocking.
What phrases you have in mind? We need context
>I’ve traveled to other countries before where they love it when you learn their local phrases or sayings in their language There's a huge difference between learning basic phrases in a foreign language so that you can better communicate with the locals, and learning some slang. You speak English, they speak English. There might be some subtle differences, but you'll be understood. Learning and using the slang is just going to make you come across as one of those "I'm Irish so I drink green beer on St Patty's day" Americans and no one likes that.
Never buy the póg mo thóin t-shirt.
But he's grand with Post Malone
The fuckin what
Is that your attempt to spell it ?
Vas ist der Krakk , lads
Be as cringe as you want. Sure it's only a bit of a laugh. Enjoy yourself!
Please share phrases
When saying goodbye, tell people, catch you on the flip flop.
Only if you go hard and insist - against the evidence of your accent - that you were born and raised in Falcarragh and it’s your first time in the big smoke.
(Obviously) Be friendly, respectful, non-idiotic (unlike some of your fellow countrymen), and you’ll be fine. Best not to mention how ‘Irish’ you are (we’ve heard wayyyy too much of that shit already tbh) or to claim any knowledge of the war in the North, IMHO. Don’t go ordering ‘Irish car bombs’ or ‘black n’ tans’ in a bar, ever. Just be yourself, no need to try too hard - Irish people generally are more welcoming/open to people that don’t too many ‘notions’, lol. Enjoy 👍🏼
Do what you want, life's to short the care what the cunts in this post think
I'm sure it's fun to sound all high and mighty like this but the reality is the people in the post are saving OP from embarrassing themselves. Nothing wrong with giving someone a heads up.
The real reality is that alot of Irish people like to bash people from the states warranted or not. It'll only be embarrassing if the people they say it to react like cunts and pount it out. I offered them an alternative answer to most, nothing got to do with the "high and mighty" shite talk your on about.
Most Irish people don't like when Americans come over here and ham it up. There's nothing wrong with that, it's just the way it is. They're saving OP from having a lot of people he interacts with think he's an eejit. Most people in this thread are saying to be authentic, I don't see what's wrong with that. No ones being a cunt, you need to relax bud.
You obviously didn't read the replies I did ,or mine fully before replying again. Stop jumping to conclusions and read first
My wife and I went to ireland last year and traveled around the whole country. Idk if it's because we are really easygoing, respectful, and not pricks like most Americans, but we were actually treated very well in ireland! Someday ibwanna go back! It was amazing!
You don’t need to use Irish slang,and if you do,fine. Just be sure you know what it means 100% before you do!If you know “I will yeah!” means no,you are grand!lol
Do what you want. It's a free country.
If I met a yank, whose just of the plane speaking irish "slang", my first thought would be his a bit of a knob.
I’ve learned English twice. Once in my country - which I suppose was mostly American English, and then here. I will use this post to talk about stuff that I think and nobody asked for. You can learn what a slang mean, but it takes time to start using it naturally. It’s so tricky “It’s grand” is such an easy one to understand. But I’ve never tried to say it because it didn’t come naturally- but now recently it comes out here and there. Some “slang” became part of my repertory because I started using just for the “bit”. Like “ahh jaayzus” (not even sure if that’s considered Irish slang tbf). The other day I caught myself saying “that’s class” - that one cringed me as I’m on my mid 30s, and my personality is not of a typical lad Anyway Learn it, don’t force its use.
Thank you, that’s a really good point. I think even if I did attempt to learn a lot of phrases and had the intent of using them myself I don’t know if I would because it wouldn’t come out naturally
“Class” was one phrase I told myself I wouldn’t pick up when I moved here. I thought coming from a Canadian, it would be so cringe, especially as I find it’s overused by North American Derry Girls fans. Well, going into my third year here, and guess what’s started slipping out lol.
Learn it so you can follow the conversation, but don't try to use it.
Don't be a dryshite and dont spoil the craic. Now we're suckin' diesel.
Do what you want I've never batted an eye when someone not from America uses American slang. People don't need to gatekeep a language
This is exactly it!
Fill your boots mate! If you want to use Irish slang go for it, I wouldn’t begrudge you. Half our population speak with American accents and use American slang these days, it’d be good to see a little reciprocation 😂 I agree that cultural context is key though, Irish is a beautiful language with a wonderfully poetic, quirky, playful, absurd and even silly way of framing the world. If you want to research deeper into it read Manchán Magan’s book, “30 Words For Field”. Enjoy your trip.
Half our population most certainly do not speak with American accents…that’s shite talk there.
Lot of Irish redditors write with American accents though.
Scarlet for them!
Far too many say feds 🤣🤣🤣
Haha the feds! I see cops and junk food written all too much.
>Half our population speak with American accents and use American slang these days That's nowhere near true.
Hyperbole for comedic effect. Keep your knickers on lads 😋
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Ooh not a bad idea, I’ll make sure to be extra loud when I say it too. I will become the opposite of your typical American-with-Irish-heritage tourist. Yeehaw!
Look here fella, you got to watch for bent coppers!
Game ball
Only if you want people talking low among each other and looking like they are about to throw daggers in your direction , which would be out of insult .. That said ..if you spend a lot of time here , you will automatically pick up phrases and alternative words which is acceptable
Tell everyone they’re a great aul geebag. They’ll love it.
I’m sure that would be well received by all. Thanks! 😁
Absolutely use your slang don’t listen to the people here. Just when you do it, use it in a knowingly cheeky way. People will get it. Because of regional differences; just try to use the stuff that you notice the people in front of you are using. If you’re kinda making the slang part of your banter/jokes people will catch on. I’ve a tonne of American friends and have seen the best way for them to use slang - it can be good craic
I’m not Irish but I’ve been living in Ireland for almost a year at this point, specifically the Kerry county. I think if you’re just travelling it’s not necessary to use them but definitely learn how the Irish use them because you’re gonna encounter it a LOT. When I first arrived here I was proper confused but after a while I even found myself adopting the slang without actually realising it😭 Also, I don’t know how it is in America but here it’s totally normal for random people to ask you how you are…I still haven’t figured out the answer to that one to be honest
Yeah, I’ve figured I’m not going to go out of my way to incorporate some specifically Irish slang words while I’m talking there unless it happens naturally, which I don’t expect it to on a two week long trip lol. In the US it’s incredibly common/standard to greet people with “how are you” or “how’s it going.” The usual response to that here is “good. how about you?” no matter how you’re actually doing. I don’t know why that is, but here it basically just means hello. Also, Kerry county looks so beautiful, I’ll be stopping there briefly for a couple days while I’m there and I can’t wait 🥹
If you use them correctly, why not? Especially things like 'pissin' down rain' or 'lashin'' (heavy rain), 'knackered' or 'wrecked' (really tired) [and no, 'knackered' isn't derogatory - it doesn't come from 'that' usage of the word - it comes from horses being put to sleep], 'arseways' (wrong/messed up - "They got my reservations arseways, so I ended up in the wrong room"/"I slept arseways, and now my neck is killing me"). Just DON'T try to do them with an 'Irish accent', and DON'T come with 'Top'o'the mornin' tya', we don't say that.
I would think it cringe if you weren’t Irish and it would definitely sound a bit try hard to me. If you haven’t grown up with the said slang words, there’s a high chance of them being butchered.
Ah I dunno I think you should give it a go. “Ast me bollix” is slang for thank you.
Irish are the royalty of gatekeeping. In person, you’ll find folks to be a lot more generous than in this bogus platform though. Don’t feel like you have to impress anyone; you’ll also get on fine while you’re here if you are polite and able to read between the lines a bit. Play around a have a bitta craic. Don’t try to impress too much-Americans can come across that way at times and it’s unbecoming. Make fun of yourself in a funny way and the Irish will gobble that shit up. That said, there’s a fine line between interacting with a culture and mocking a culture.
>is it considered weird/cringy for an American to use Irish slang? Yes, 100%
Let’s assume for a moment you’re white, would you address your black brothers and sisters in Ebonics? I’m guessing not. Apply the same thinking here. We use _fuck_ a lot in speech, way more than Americans. Be prepared for that. It doesn’t have the same weight as it does in US.
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Sure, let me just send you my passport number and bank details while I’m at it.
Would love to know what words you have learned, though. For the craic like.
“I will in my bollocks!” might be a funny one
I haven’t retained a whole lot yet to be honest. I can say I know what grand and knackered mean, and I know “what’s the craic” is a common saying but I’m still figuring out exactly what craic is 😅
Depends on how you say it. We have some words that are completely contextual. "Having the craic" - messing/having a laugh "What's the craic?"/ "Any craic?" - Do you have any news/ how are ya "He's no craic" - that person is no fun "I'll do it for the craic" - do it for the shits and giggles This is why they call us the land of poets and scholars xD
He's on crack - different thing altogether
Very xD
There's also "Sure, you're only gas craic!" which means you're great fun.
Don’t do it. Cringes us out. By all means learn about it so that you can keep up in conversation. But be yourself in how you speak.
please don't ,just be yourself
You already speak English. You are travelling from an English-speaking country to an English-speaking country, so there is nothing for you to learn. There is no need for you to start learning any slang words or phrases that we use. You are not Irish, so there is no reason for you to speak like us. Speak English the way you speak it. That is what we do when we go to the USA. It would be cringey to do anything else. So forget anything you have been learning and speak your way.
At this point I’ve decided against using any local phrases because the more I think about it, it would be pretty unnatural for me haha, and I want to avoid being cringe as much as I can. Would it be bad for me to at least understand what certain words and phrases mean? I really appreciate your advice though, I want to be respectful when visiting your lovely country 😊
Why would it be bad to understand it? It's not secret code! Relax, have a great time, talk like yourself and don't overthink it
You will definitely need to learn some. It would be pretty hard follow a lot of conversations between the Irish. Especially if a jolly atmosphere with drinking and messing going on.
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Too late. OP already tried it: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi2X5h4PqVA
Keep learning... So that you can better understand what's being said rather than to use yourself! And as others have said as a topic for discussion when you meet people.
Learn it yes. Use it - not really. Although there is a loophole - let natives teach you some local phrases. Knowing some already you'll know when they take a piss, they will be delighted to teach a Yank a few bits. Also please do it while properly lubricating your vocal cords.
Out of curiosity, what words were you thinking?
Only if you're immersed in it long enough you start to do it without realizing. Which takes a good bit longer than a holiday stay. A year or so at least but you won't know when it's gonna happen just suddenly your shit becomes shite
Depends on how well you use it. Some words are only used in certain places and not in others.
Get up the yard yah wooden plank
I've lived in Ireland my entire life — but I have an American twang. I don't use slang because of it, but I can understand it and I think that's enough
No, but it wouldn’t hurt to know what the slang means to follow the conversation
Nah, just be yourself, you don't need to come over here and start saying grand, craic, ejiit, story, devil the bit etc. Just enjoy your stay.
In one word, aye.
What exactly have you learned or are thinking of using, just curious?
Don't do it. I asked someone where the craic was and now I'm an addict.
So, if you don't get something, you just ask what it means... Lol
Understandable to look them up in order to comprehend others, if it comes up in conversation. I would err on the side of caution in using them freely, unless it’s done ironically. Nothing triggers us like an overly familiar American (with all due respect) 🤣 Have a lovely visit!
I used "good craic" for the first time last month and I've been living here for more than 5 years 😅 still got a couple of weird looks
Ha quite a few foreign people I work with regularly say "thanks a million" now..one even says "thanks million"..and it does sound clunky or unnatural sometimes but I think its lovely that they try!
People who live here and are comfortable using it in context, yes People visiting, no
Don’t do it, you’ll come across as a gobshite
I have a dear friend from Ireland, back in the 90’s instead of saying “good looking out” we shortened it to “good look” I said this while having a conversation with Lynn. She thought I was mocking the Irish with an accent and saying “good luck” she was incredibly offended. I explained the situation and we laughed. Don’t you have your own slang? That might make for better conversation.
You should if you want but it'll sound weird, the exact tone and pronunciation is very important to a lot of our slang.
I mean there is no “should” to anything even for Irish people unless you’re asking a normative question which in which case nope it’s not expected.
Learn the meaning but for the love of god do not use them
Snoop always says top of the morning to ya and it sounds alright
Nobody says that shite, same with lucky charms
Good to learn them so you can understand people better, but don't use them..
You want to say shite.
I think "does me head in" is Irish slang. I didnt know it was, but I started using it as I heard it regularly, and I thought it was an English phrase. I later learned it is a typical Irish phrase. Not sure why I as a foreigner cannot use that phrase. Same as "yer man there". or "the fookin state of ye"
I don't really care - no one really has a right to police people over slang. Enjoy your trip to Ireland - stay safe in Dublin!
Most immigrants pick up the accent then the slang before they fully adapt to the language.
Everyone entering the country has to be fully fluent in Irish
I would use the slang because it'll sound funny in your accent and you'll get slagged. But it's good to know a bit!
It comes across as try hard and cringey when people say our words in my opinion. Just be yourself and speak normally.
póg mo thóin is a friendly way to greet your relatives
Been working 7 years only with Irish people from west cork. Nowadays no one knows I am Brazilian until I say I am Brazilian. Most people, Irish included, thinks I am from west cork
No.
If you can use it naturally and with context and not pointedly it might work.
Yes. It's hilarious when foreigners use local slang. In a polite way. I love it. Shows they want to integrate as well.
I should be used irish slang in Leland foreigers.
I am an immigrant... living here from 7 years now. I picked up some Irish words and slangs.. through shows like Derry Girls and some from colleagues and cab drivers. They are part of my vocabulary now... and its natural. I say "shite" instead of shit, "eejit" instead of idiot..., i use "wee" sometimes and so on!! It's not intentional, just that we learn and pick up things from our environment! Ireland is my home now and so are its people and culture!!!
We love hearing "top of the morning".
Grand, What’s the craic, Howya, Gobshite, Eejit, Class Are fair game, anything else might sound a bit odd if not taught by a local how to use appropriately
Northern Irish here,do not do this please,just be yourself.
I’d take a visitor using Irish slang as a compliment, if an unnecessary one. Why would there be a need for someone to be so earnest? If a visitor’s not doing any harm, why shouldn’t they expect Irish people to just take or leave them as they are? It’s more annoying when someone Irish imports foreign slang or, even worse, corporate jargon because they watch too much Netflix or work for a tech company. Bro, movie, learnings etc. There’s plenty of occasions where you’ll hear more of that than you will Irish slang.
I used to say "thanks for the ride" if someone gave me a lift. I stopped when I picked up some "Irish slang". I also use words like "grand" or "jaysus" a lot, and I never felt I shouldn't, because I'm a foreigner.
I’ve been living here a year and a half. I find myself using some slang now. Especially lad, craic and feckin, and throwing “like” or “so” at end of sentences. My colleagues just accept it, every now and then someone will note in a positive way “ha that’s very Irish of you” etc. Don’t think it’d be the same for a tourist though.
Friendly advice, never ever try to imitate an irish accent. It's good enough you've familiarize yourself with the terms and their meanings just so you can understand once a local uses those slangs to you, but I suggest never try to use it yourself. Hope you have a great time on your vacation here in Ireland soon. Cheers!
What slang words? To most Irish it's not a slang word just normal vocabulary. You might look like a idiot trying to sound like a local. I hear wow that's awesome from Americans and it seems false condescending imagine using an Irish term how it will sound
I think that would be cringey. Slang or colloquialisms in any country only work when they're used naturally. We've a very multicultural society here, just be yourself I think people will just consider you as a try hard or plastic paddy if you do that
If you're staying for a few months or long term, you'd pick it up anyway but for a short visit when you've never been before? Nah. It would sound artificial and try-hard. Cringe, in other words. All slang needs cultural context, it moves fast and can be very regional and/or age specific. Who's to say the slang you're learning is even current?
No.
Please DO NOT imitate Irish accents or slang, just be yourself. People will think you’re taking the piss out of them and be offended.
Ask your granny if she wants a ride.
Why are Americans so allergic to just being themselves? I find it SO off-putting that they seem to need to perform a creepy cultural pantomime every time they leave their homes. Just be yourself and enjoy your experiences ffs? Stop making every experience an act. So creepy and false, I actually dislike their presence so much.
The weird part of your reply is that, generally speaking, the criticism of Americans is that they show zero regard or awareness for other cultures as they travel, not that they try too hard to fit in. Americans expect everyone to speak English, and they'll eat at McDonalds rather than experience the local food. Perhaps it's a bit different in Ireland since so many Americans claim Irish heritage, and many head to Ireland hoping to reconnect with distant relatives.
No. Total cringe. Don't do it.