Cornish Slang: Mastering "Proper Job" & Other Local Phrases
Hello there! At Brand Shop, we revel in the rich tapestry of UK culture, and today, we're diving into the heart of Cornwall to explore its delightful dialect. Cornish slang is a treasure trove of unique expressions that reflect the region's vibrant history and character. Whether you're a local or a visitor, mastering a few Cornish phrases can make your experience even more authentic and enjoyable.
"Proper Job"
One of the most iconic phrases you'll hear in Cornwall is "Proper Job." It's a versatile expression used to convey approval or satisfaction. For instance, if someone completes a task exceptionally well, you might hear, "That's a proper job!" It can also be used to agree with someone or to express contentment. It’s the Cornish way of giving a thumbs up.
"Dreckly"
Another cornerstone of Cornish slang is "Dreckly." While it might sound like "directly," it means quite the opposite. "Dreckly" is a flexible term that implies something will be done eventually, not immediately. It's akin to the Spanish "mañana" and reflects the laid-back Cornish attitude towards time.
"Wasson"
When in Cornwall, you’ll often hear people greeting each other with "Wasson?" Short for "What’s going on?" it’s a casual way to ask how someone is or what they’ve been up to. It’s a friendly and informal way to start a conversation and can be used in various social settings.
"Giss On"
If a local asks you to "giss on," they’re simply asking for help or a favour. It’s a contraction of "give us a hand." This phrase is a testament to the community spirit in Cornwall, where helping each other out is a common practice.
"Emmet"
The term "Emmet" is used by Cornish locals to refer to tourists or outsiders. Derived from the Cornish word for "ant," it humorously describes the swarms of visitors that flock to Cornwall, especially in the summer. While it’s generally used in a light-hearted manner, it’s always good to be aware of it.
Phrases in Action
To give you a better feel for these expressions, let's put them into a short narrative:
Imagine you’ve just finished a project, and your Cornish friend says, "That’s a proper job, mate!"
You ask if they’d like to grab a coffee, and they respond, "I’ll be there dreckly."
On your way, you bump into another friend who greets you with "Wasson?"
Later, you might need help with something, so you say, "Can you giss on with this?"
Why Learn Cornish Slang?
Learning Cornish slang is more than just picking up a few phrases; it’s about embracing the local culture and connecting with the people. Cornwall has a rich history and a strong sense of identity, and its language is a big part of that. By using these expressions, you’re showing respect and appreciation for the local heritage.
Quick Reference Guide
Common Cornish Slang Phrases
| Phrase |
Meaning |
| Proper Job |
Well done, excellent |
| Dreckly |
Eventually, not immediately |
| Wasson |
What’s going on? |
| Giss On |
Give us a hand, help out |
| Emmet |
Tourist, outsider |
By familiarising yourself with these phrases, you’ll find it easier to immerse yourself in Cornish culture and make meaningful connections with locals. At Brand Shop, we believe that understanding and respecting local dialects can greatly enhance your travel experiences. So next time you’re in Cornwall, don’t be an emmet; speak like a local and enjoy the experience to the fullest. Proper job!
