Britain’s favourite traditional idioms have been revealed – so, do you know what they mean?
Despite the rise of new words and phrases on social media, a new study has found that many Brits are reviving traditional expressions.
The experts at Preply analysed UK literacy data to uncover the classic idioms that have experienced an increase in usage.
Topping the list is ‘not my cup of tea’, which is a polite way to say that you don’t like or enjoy something.
Despite originating in the late 1800s, this expression saw a whopping 614 per cent increase from 2000 to 2022.
‘Whether it’s “raining cats and dogs” or “not my cup of tea”, these traditional British idioms build connections through shared understanding,’ said Anna Pyshna, a spokesperson from Preply.
‘While some classic idioms may be falling out of use, many of these figurative expressions are experiencing a revival as Brits continue to embrace humour and familiarity in everyday conversations.’
So, how many of these classic idioms do you know?
From ‘6,7’ to ‘demure’, several new words and phrases have taken over social media in recent years.
However, the online language learning app set out to understand how traditional idioms are being used – and how they’re changing.
Ms Pyshna explained: ‘Social media has quickly become the primary facilitator for language development, with digital communication transforming how idioms are used and interpreted.
‘Traditional idioms are now accompanied by memes, images, and GIFs, adding a layered meaning to the phrase.”
‘Social media gives way to hybrid idioms, mixing traditional phrases with new slang to create digital idioms.
‘A prime example of this is the shift from “spill the beans” to “spill the tea”, meaning to reveal a secret.’
For the study, Preply analysed UK literacy to identify the top British idioms experiencing an increase in usage from 2000 to 2022.
While ‘not my cup of tea’ tops the list as the favourite idiom, this is closely followed by ‘faff around’ – meaning to mess around or do unnecessary tasks – which has seen a 449 per cent resurgence.
Despite the rise of new words and phrases on social media, a new study has found that many Brits are reviving traditional expressions
‘Hit the nail on the head’ is next, with a 327 per cent spike in interest, ahead of ‘different kettle of fish’ (245 per cent increase).
Other popular idioms include ‘popped her clogs’, ‘cry over spilled milk’, and ‘raining cats and dogs’.
According to Ms Pyshna, the comeback of classic British idioms is more than just a passing trend.
She added: ‘Idioms are a cornerstone of the English language, with many Brits using them unconsciously.
‘These phrases act as linguistic shorthand, conveying complex emotions in a creative, often humorous, way.’
The news comes shortly after a survey revealed the outdated British slang terms for sex that have been consigned to history.
‘How’s–your–father’ tops the list, with 80 per cent of Gen Z admitting they’ve never used the expression.
‘Hanky–panky’ leaves 67 per cent baffled, while almost half (48 per cent) say they’ve never used the word ‘nookie’.
In contrast, Gen Z’s favourite slang for sex is now ‘smash’, according to the survey.
‘Our research shows just how much language evolves and changes, and over relatively short periods of time,’ said Harriet Scott, founder and CEO of Perspectus Global.
‘Terms for sex or sexual activity, have often relied on euphemisms, slang or metaphor, as to talk directly about the act itself is taboo.’
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What are YOUR favourite British idioms?
