Scotland is known for its unique way with words, with plenty of sayings and phrases that can leave visitors completely baffled. But while many Scots expressions are still instantly recognisable, some seem to be disappearing from everyday conversation.
Many of these sayings have been passed down through generations, becoming part of everyday life and often carrying a meaning that is difficult to explain in just a few words. Some have remained hugely popular, while others appear to be used less and less as the years go by.
From phrases used to tell children off to classic sayings about life, money and even the weather, there are plenty that could bring back memories of hearing your grandparents, parents or other relatives use them. As anyone familiar with Scots knows, there is an expression to fit almost every scenario. Once you know a few, you will likely be throwing them out regularly.
Classic Scots phrases
Gonnae no' dae that! This is a classic way of telling someone to stop what they're doing. Gonnae no' dae that simply means don't do that. It is the kind of phrase that can be heard across Scotland when someone is getting on your nerves or doing something they have to be warned not to do.
Be happy you’re living, you’re long time dead This saying is all about making the most of life rather than spending too much time worrying about things. Be happy you’re living, you’re long time dead is essentially a Scottish reminder to enjoy yourself while you can.
Whit’s fur ye’ll no go past ye This is one of the most known Scottish sayings. Whit’s fur ye’ll no go past ye means whatever is meant to happen will happen. It is often used as a comforting reminder that things will work out as they are supposed to. Often or not you'll hear this saying when a relationship ends or someone doesn't get the job they applied for. It is basically a Scottish saying used to comfort a person when things go bad.
Money and weather sayings
Mony a mickle maks a muckle Mony a mickle maks a muckle translates to 'many a little makes a mickle', which basically means 'a lot of small amounts combine to make a large amount'. In other words, saving a little bit of money here and there can eventually leave you with a sizable amount of money. It is also similar to the saying 'look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves'.
I'm up to high doh If someone in Scotland says they are up to high doh, they are telling you they are extremely stressed, anxious or worked up. It's a Scottish way of describing someone who has reached their limit. It's a phrase many Scots will have used themselves, or perhaps heard from their parents when they've finally had enough of your endless questions, or you've really got on their last nerve.
It’s a dreich day There might not be a better word for a typical miserable Scottish day than dreich. If someone described it as a 'driech day', they're talking about weather than is cold, wet, grey and generally miserable. More often than not, dreich is now simply replaced with the word miserable.
More classic sayings
Speak o’ the Devil Ever been talking about someone only for them to suddenly appear? That's when you might hear the phrase speak o' the devil. The saying is used when the person you were just talking about happens to show up. Often or not the phrase is followed up with 'and he's sure to appear'.
D'you think ah came up the Clyde in a banana boat? Easily one of the most quientessential Glaswegian phrases on the list. D'you think ah came up the Clyde in a banana boat? is essentially another way of asking: "Do you think I'm stupid?" It's one of the shapest ways to deflect any attempts to be caught out by someone. A popular saying even if no one knows whether in actual fact a banana boat is one of those inflatable ones you see on holiday or not. If you think you're being taken for a fool or someone is trying to pull the wool over you're eyes, it's best to hit them with this saying.
Pin yer lugs back If someone tells you to pin yer lugs back, you'd better start paying attention. The phrase is a warning to listen carefully to what is being said and usually means you're about to hear something you shouldn't ignore.
Dinnae teach yer Granny tae suck eggs! An old saying that means you shouldn't try to teach someone something they already know, particularly when you're doing so in a patronising or condescending way. After all, when it comes to your granny, you can safely assume she already knows how to suck an egg.
