Scotland's long-awaited return to the World Cup is bringing a wave of supporters across the Atlantic, but some fans may discover that the biggest challenge is not Haiti's defence, but the language barrier.
Thousands of Scots Already in America
Thousands of Scots have already made their way to America ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with many more expected to arrive in the coming days as Steve Clarke's side prepare for their first game against Haiti on Saturday, June 13, at Boston Stadium.
The Tartan Army is renowned for creating a strong atmosphere wherever Scotland play, with supporters travelling from all corners of the country to back the national team on the biggest stage. But while Scotland and the United States may share the English language, there are plenty of words and phrases that mean very different things on either side of the Atlantic.
Scottish Slang Terms
People across Scotland are known for their slang terms, using words like wain, bogging and outwith that are rarely heard outside the country. These colourful euphemisms often leave someone who is not Scottish completely baffled once the conversation is over.
And it seems the Tartan Army might run into the same problem in America. Thankfully, X account @1scottishbanter has put together a handy guide to help Scotland supporters avoid awkward misunderstandings – or worse – while they're in the States.
The post joked: "Read carefully to avoid confusing the locals, deeply offending the country, or being interrogated by Homeland Security over a sandwich."
The Essential Scots to American Translation Guide
Piece
In America: Gun
In Scotland: Sandwich
Tip: Do not cheerfully tell American airport security that your granny "packed you a piece" for the flight. They will shut down the entire terminal and you will never see Scotland again.
Messages
In America: Texts and voicemails
In Scotland: Your shopping
Tip: Announcing to the room that you are "nipping out to get the messages" will cause concern. The Americans will wonder why you need to walk to the shops to check your group chat.
Football
In America: American football
In Scotland: Football
Tip: Don't indulge in their nonsense. They are wrong. It is football, not soccer.
Ride
In America: Lift in a car
In Scotland: Depends how the night's going
Tip: If a local asks you for a "quick ride," they just want a lift in your rental car. Keep your trousers firmly zipped.
Tea
In America: Hot drink
In Scotland: Dinner
Tip: If you complain that you are starving because you "haven't had your tea yet," the locals will assume you have a life-threatening addiction to Earl Grey.
Greet
In America: A warm welcome
In Scotland: Cry
Tip: A Scot can greet at a funeral, a wedding and a last minute winner. The American beside them will be very impressed by how friendly they are.
Randy
In America: A man's name
In Scotland: In the mood
Tip: If an American greets you with 'Hi, I'm Randy,' do not reply 'good for you, big man.' He means his name.
Fanny
In America: Backside
In Scotland: Not your backside
Tip: If an American compliments your fanny, smile. No need to check your zipper.
Scheme
In America: A sneaky, devious plan
In Scotland: A housing estate
Tip: If an American confides that they have a "crazy scheme to get rich," resist the urge to ask if the rent is cheap and the neighbours are quiet.
Shag
In America: A haircut, or a carpet
In Scotland: Coitus
Tip: If an American says 'great shag', they're admiring your haircut. Or the carpet. Almost certainly one of those two – in your case, definitely.
John
In America: Toilet
In Scotland: A man called John
Tip: If an American frantically asks you "where the John is," do not point them towards your mate at the end of the bar.
Rubber
In America: Condom
In Scotland: Eraser
Tip: Fondly telling an American that you "used to chew on your rubber at school" will prompt an immediate call to the local authorities. Keep your educational memories to yourself.
Rocket
In America: A space vehicle
In Scotland: An absolute idiot
Tip: If you call a bouncer "an absolute rocket," do not expect him to be offended. He will just assume you are praising his explosive speed and aerodynamic physique.
