The United Kingdom is home to a diverse mix of different accents and dialects. In previous posts and podcasts, we talked about the curiosities of Yorkshire and the accent and dialects commonly used there and today we are going to venture south to the capital and talk about the London-based tradition of Rhyming Slang.
Cockney rhyming slang traces its origins to the 19th Century, Where Cockney (people born in the east of London) market traders used it as a way to communicate discreetly. Over time, it has become an enduring and distinctive part of British linguistic heritage.
How Does It Work?
The basic principle of Cockney Rhyming Slang involves replacing a common word with a phrase that rhymes with it. Often, the second (rhyming) word in the phrase is dropped, which adds to the mystery for those unfamiliar with the slang. For example:
- Apples and pears → Stairs ("I’m just going up the apples.")
- Trouble and strife → Wife ("How’s the trouble these days?")
- Dog and bone → Phone ("Give me a bell on the dog.")
- Plates of meat → Feet ("Me plates are killing me after all that walking!")
Modern Usage
While Cockney Rhyming Slang is less common today, it still pops up in London and beyond, often in playful conversation or popular culture. Some phrases have even made their way into everyday British English, such as "use your loaf" (short for "loaf of bread" meaning "head") and "porkies" (from "pork pies," meaning "lies").
Even if you don’t plan on using Cockney Rhyming Slang yourself, knowing a few phrases can be a great way to appreciate the richness of British dialects. So next time you’re in London, keep an ear out—you never know when someone might be having a chinwag about the old trouble and strife!
Want to test your understanding of this form of slang? Check out the quiz below!
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