Below are some commonly used phrases used by locals. Scottish sayings are known for their charm, wit, and colourful language. Here are some popular Scottish sayings:
"Wee" - small
"Aye" - yes
"Bairn" - Child
"Bonnie" - pretty/beautiful
"Lassie" - Girl or young woman
"Dreich." - Used to describe the Scottish weather when it's dull, gloomy, and damp. It can also refer to a generally slow or tedious situation.
"Mickle" - Small
"Muckle" - Large or big
"Braw" - Means good, excellent, or fine
"Canny" - Clever or cautious
"Blether" - To talk or chat idly. If someone is described as a "blether," it means they talk a lot or enjoy engaging in casual conversation.
"Slainte" - Cheers (used when toasting)
"Lang may yer lum reek." - May your chimney smoke for a long time. It's a way of wishing someone a long and prosperous life.
"Haud yer wheesht." - Be quiet or hold your tongue. It's a phrase used to tell someone to stop talking or to be silent.
"Dinnae fash yersel." - Don't worry or bother yourself. It's a phrase often used to tell someone not to stress or get worked up about something.
"Dae ye ken?" - do you know?
"Nae bother" - no problem or don't worry about it
"Mony a mickle maks a muckle." - Many small things accumulate to make a large thing. It means that saving or gathering small amounts can lead to a significant result.
"Wee buns." - Very easy or simple. If something is "wee buns," it means it's effortless or straightforward.
"Whit's fur ye'll no go by ye." - What is meant for you will not pass you by. This saying suggests that fate or destiny will ensure that you receive what is rightfully yours.
"Awa' an bile yer heid." (Away and boil your head.) - A dismissive way of telling someone to go away and stop bothering you.
"It's a sair fecht." (It's a hard struggle.) - Used to describe a challenging or difficult situation.
"Dinnae teach yer Granny tae suck eggs." - Don't try to teach someone something they already know, especially if they are older and more experienced.
"Yer bum's oot the windae" - You're not making any sense (literally, your bum is out of the window).
"Keep the heid": Encouragement to stay calm and composed, especially in challenging situations.
These sayings are just a glimpse of the rich linguistic heritage and humour found in Scottish culture.
Note that some Scottish phrases and expressions can vary by region and dialect, so you may hear slightly different versions depending on where you are in Scotland.
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