Slang and colloquial phrases are one of the biggest delights when speaking a second language, or even when speaking English away from home. North Western English people have their own special words and phrases which show friendliness, affection, curiousity, and indicate that they are relaxed enough with you not to resort to super-formal English. For this reason, it is always good to know what is beig said to you, rather than smiling at them when they are sharing some important information. Like a lot of slang, many of these translate to other parts of the U.K., while some are peculiarly local.
1. Alright?
This isn’t a question about your wellbeing. It’s a greeting. The correct response is usually “Alright!” in return.
2. Sound
Means ‘good’, ‘fine’, or ‘no problem’. If someone says your plan is ‘sound’, you’re doing well.
3. Boss
Popular in Liverpool. It means excellent. A café, a view, or even the weather can be ‘boss’.
4. Mint
Used across the North West to mean great or impressive. ‘That walk was mint’ is high praise.
5. Dead (as an intensifier)
‘Dead good’ or ‘dead easy’ means very good or very easy. Don’t worry, no-one is planning murder.
6. Chuffed
Pleased or proud. If a local says they’re chuffed, something’s gone right.
7. Gaff
A casual word for a house, flat, or place. ‘Pop back to mine’ = ‘come to my gaff’.
8. Ta
A friendly, informal ‘thank you’. Perfect for cafés, buses, and shops.
9. Buzzing
Excited or happy. If someone’s buzzing about the weekend, expect enthusiasm.
10. Sorted
Problem solved. Plans confirmed. Everything’s arranged. A reassuring word for travellers.
11. Proper
Used for emphasis. ‘Proper nice town’ means genuinely nice, not sarcastic.
12. Ace
Another word for excellent. Common in Lancashire and Cumbria as well as cities.
13. Nipped
Short for ‘went quickly’. “I nipped to the shop” means a fast trip.
14. Mad
Often means surprising or impressive, not crazy. ‘That view’s mad’ = wow.
15. Our kid
Means a sibling or close friend, not an actual child. You’ll hear this a lot in Manchester.
16. Cheeky
Light-hearted and playful. A ‘cheeky coffee’ or ‘cheeky pint’ is spontaneous and fun. The most common reference for ‘cheeky’ is “a cheeky Nando’s”, which refers to a quick, spontaneous meal at a well-known chicken restaurant chain. No-one quite knows why the phrase became quite so ubiquitous, nut Nando’s must be loving the free marketing!
17. Faff
To waste time or overcomplicate things. ‘No faffing about’ means keep it simple.
18. Skint
Short of money. Very common and very useful to recognise.
19. Packed
Busy or crowded. If a place is packed, you may want to arrive earlier next time.
20. Nice one
A friendly way to say thanks or show appreciation. Warm, casual, and always welcome.
Final Tips for North West Day Trippers
You don’t need to master every local phrase to enjoy your visit, but understanding a few key bits of North West England slang can make conversations smoother, locals friendlier, and your day trips more enjoyable.
To be perfectly honest, I would say that travellers to the North West should be aware of this slang, rather than attempt to actually use it too much. Slang and colloquilisms belong to the place and the culture, and an outsider saying these words and phrases might come across as a bit desperate. Best just to surprise people by NOT being surprised at the slang!
Don’t worry about getting it perfect, either way. People in the North West are famously welcoming, and a smile goes a long way.
If you’re planning days out in Liverpool, Manchester, the Lake District, or Lancashire towns and villages, keep this list handy and you’ll feel right at home in no time.
North West Day Trips 