Irish (Gaelic), Ulster Scots, and English are the three main languages used in Northern Ireland. However, don’t even think for a moment that just because the locals on our beautiful island understand English, you’ll find it simple to make friends with them. You’ll need to learn Northern Irish slang terms and phrases because they are used frequently, even in formal conversation, and you’ll need to understand what people are saying in the local pub.
Saying: The state of ye!
Translation: You’re a disgrace
Example: Mary shouts over to Paddy “The state of ye!” becuase he was so drunk, he couldn’t walk.
Saying: Yoke
Translation: Car
Example: That’s some Yoke you’re driving!
Saying: Good man yourself / Good woman yourself!
Translation: You’re a decent person
Example: Billy say’s ” Here’s a pint for ye!” John say’s “Good man yourself!”
Saying: I’m raging
Translation: Not in a good mood!
Example: I’m raging, I’ve no money left.
Saying: Ride
Translation: Someone of the opposite sex is very attractive.
Example: Look at him over there, He’s a ride!
Saying: Yer man
Translation: That guy
Example: Look at yer man, over there!
Saying: What’s the craic?
Translation: How’s things?
Example: What’s the craic? awk, I haven’t been up to much.
Saying: He’s sound
Translation: He’s a good guy.
Example: awk, Shaun is sound.
Saying: Session / Sesh
Translate: Party / Booze up
Example: We’re going on the Sesh.
Saying: I’m grand
Translation: I’m fine
Example: How are you? I’m grand