Common Phrases and Expressions in Glasgow

These are everyday sayings in English-speaking Glasgow and the west. Some are Scots, some are local English, and most people mix both.

What’s fur ye’ll no go by ye.

What is meant for you will not pass you by. Used when something happens late, or when someone is trying to accept luck or fate.

We’re all Jock Tamson’s bairns.

We are all equal; nobody is better than anybody else.

Keep the heid.

Stay calm. Don’t lose your temper.

Haud yer wheesht.

Be quiet. Stop talking.

Lang may yer lum reek.

Long may your chimney smoke. A good-luck wish meaning “may you always have warmth, food, and a home.”

Many a mickle maks a muckle.

Lots of small amounts add up to a large amount. Save the pennies.

Dinnae fash yersel.

Don’t worry yourself. Don’t get worked up.

Awa’ and bile yer heid.

Go away and boil your head. A blunt way of saying “get lost” or “that’s nonsense.”

It’s a sair fecht.

It’s a hard fight. Life, work, or a situation is tough.

Wha’s like us? Gey few, and they’re a’ deid.

Who is like us? Very few, and they’re all dead. A proud, joking boast about Scots.

It’s the hope that kills ye.

Getting your hopes up, especially about football, is what hurts most.

Gonnae no dae that.

Please don’t do that. A very Glasgow way of telling someone to stop.

That’s me away.

I’m leaving now.

See yous later.

See you later. “Yous” is the local plural of “you.”

Better oot than in.

Better out than in. Said after a belch, or when something awkward has been said and cannot be taken back.

Mair haste, less speed.

More haste, less speed. Rushing makes the job slower.

A nod’s as good as a wink.

A small hint is enough. You should already understand.

Pure dead brilliant.

Really excellent. Strong Glasgow praise.