England is not far down south but sometimes Scotland can seem like a different planet - as our colourful expressions and accents could leave any newcomer scratching their head.
Intriguingly, this isn’t just a case of ‘slang’ or Billy Connolly-esque accents as Scotland is considered a multilingual country. Native languages like Scots, Scottish Gaelic and of course English, all come together under an array of beautiful accents and dialects.
If you’re Scottish, or have lived here, then you’ll know well that we have developed our own style when it comes to using English – and so certain words don’t mean what the Collins Dictionary says they do in the context of Scotland.
To spare you asking for translations, here are 40 everyday English words and phrases with different meanings in Scotland.
29. Supper
This means a late evening snack to most but in Scotland it pretty much refers to any meal you get from your local chippy. Photo: Langan via CanvaPro
30. Poke
This, innocently, refers to gently prodding someone, but if you're at your chippy then asking for a "poke" of chips is like asking for a portion of them. Photo: Submitted
31. Tan
Unlike heading down to the beach on a rare sunny day to get a tan on your skin, if you "tan" a drink in Scotland it means you're drinking it fast - often in one swig. Photo: YakobchukOlena via CanvaPro
32. Tea
Associated strongly with places like Edinburgh, if you say you're having your tea then it most likely means you're having your evening dinner. Photo: luizcosta1970/ Nicole Michalou via Canva Pro