Top 10+ things British people say vs what they really mean

As someone who's not from the UK, have you ever had a conversation with a British person, only to come away and be completely perplexed by the whole scenario? As in, what you thought meant one thing, actually meant something completely different. As a nation - and we apologise in advance if you're new to irony - we're very sarcastic. Being indirect is our superpower. And confrontation is our enemy. We can't seem to have a direct discussion with anyone, so, for some, it may feel like we're speaking in code. (Don't even get us started on regional phrases, sayings and accents, we'll be here all day!) (Picture: Getty Images)

Brit on Brit, there's mutual understanding and respect when it comes to this topic. Rather than confronting you about something, we'll beat around the bush. Or, instead of just telling you we'll probably never make plans with you again, we say we will anyway. Both parties get it, and this way, we don't hurt anyone's feelings. But, for those not familiar with our 'saying one thing but meaning another' personality trait, it can be very hard (and annoying) to follow a conversation from the off-set. Or, even worse - you'll be constantly checking your phone for days, thinking, 'why haven't they called yet?' To avoid awkward situations like this, we've put together a list of 10 common things a British person might say to you, accompanied with what we actually mean. All we can say is sorry… (Picture: Getty Images)

'I see what you're saying'

What you think they mean: They accept my point of view
What they actually mean: I totally disagree and do not want to discuss this with you further. In UK talk, this is basically a polite way of ending a conversation/debate. We won't directly tell you that we're not seeing eye to eye with you. Instead, we'd rather you take the hint so we can all move on. Until the next time, that is (Picture: Getty Images)

'With the greatest respect'

What you think they mean: They’re listening to me
What they actually mean: What you're saying is stupid. Seriously, we cannot fathom how you came to this conclusion. It literally makes no sense. And because you've said this, it's likely we'll be sceptical of your future suggestions. In the nicest way possible, please think before you speak (Picture: Getty Images)

'I kind of agree'

What you think they mean: They’re not far from agreement
What they actually mean: I do not agree at all. I'm just too polite to let you know I'm not on the same page as you. I'm also hoping/sure you'll figure this out for yourself so I don't have to confront you over the issue (Picture: Getty Images)

'That’s not bad'

What you think they mean: It's not that great
What they actually mean: That’s good. We approve or are satisfied with what you're saying. It's better than what we expected, and now we're pretty invested in your thoughts. Additionally, if you ask us how our day was and we reply with 'not too bad,' it means we're having an alright day, and have no complaints. To confuse you even more, with this phrase, the meaning can vary slightly depending on the speaker's context or tone. But generally, it's a positive or neutral expression (Picture: Getty Images)

'Very interesting'

What you think they mean: Wow, they’re impressed with what I’m saying
What they actually mean: This is incredibly dull and this person is talking nonsense. Remember when we mentioned that British humour is dictated by sarcasm? Well, this is a prime example of that. You'll be able to detect said sarcasm when someone reels off this phrase with a deadpan expression. The less expression the higher the level of sarcasm. The higher the level of sarcasm, the more nonsense we think you're chatting (Picture: Getty Images)

'We must do this again sometime!'

What you think they mean: We'll meet up soon
What they actually mean: Under absolutely no circumstances will I be making plans with you again. It's genuinely not you, it's me. The older I get, the less sociable I become, and my actual idea of a great Friday night is sitting at home with a takeaway and reading a good book with my dog. So when someone over-enthusiastically talks about making plans with you again, take it with a pinch of salt. Because 99.9% of the time, they're not gonna follow it through (Picture: Getty Images)

'It's probably my fault'

What you think they mean: They think it’s their fault
What they actually mean: This is all your fault. How on earth did you get us into this situation? We're only taking the blame to protect your feelings because we're a polite breed. Also, admitting responsibility is way less intimidating than confronting you and potentially starting a row (Picture: Getty Images)

'Sorry'

What you think they mean: They're apologising for something
What they actually mean: I need to ask you a question. I'm just being friendly and want to avoid a conflict. You just bumped into me but I'm sorry that it happened. In the UK, the word 'sorry' can take on so many different meanings, so we're genuinely sorry for the inevitable confusion it will cause. The main thing to be aware of is that British people overuse this word on a daily basis, so to try and understand the meaning of each individual 'sorry,' it's best to be aware of the context of the conversation. That way, you'll be able to put two and two together and respond accordingly (Picture: Getty Images)

'I might pop by later'

What you think they mean: They're coming over later
What they actually mean: I am already in bed and was never going to come out in the first place. Are you having a party and have invited your British friend? If they haven't RSVP'd with a definite yes, and instead indifferently said that they 'might pop by later,' note that this person is NOT going to be in attendance. The definitely already made plans with themselves, an oven pizza, and a classic rom-com (Picture: Getty Images)

'I’ll bear it in mind'

What you think they mean: They'll consider my suggestion
What they actually mean: Not a chance am I doing that. I'm too shy to say no to your face, so I'll just tell you that I'm considering it. But, my uncertain/unconvinced expression should tell you what I'm really thinking, and you should be courteous enough to get the hint and drop the subject (Picture: Getty Images) This article was originally published in June 2024