Understanding London Slang
London, with its rich tapestry of cultures and histories, boasts a unique vernacular that can be both fascinating and perplexing. The city's slang is a reflection of its diverse populace, blending influences from Cockney, Caribbean, and various other linguistic sources. One particularly intriguing phrase is "Bang Out of Order."
What Does "Bang Out of Order" Mean?
In the context of London slang, "Bang Out of Order" is an expression used to convey disapproval or highlight that something is unfair or inappropriate. Imagine a scenario where someone skips the queue at a busy London café. A local might exclaim, "That's bang out of order!" to indicate the act's unacceptability.
Examples of Usage
- Queue jumping: Skipping ahead in a line is considered disrespectful. Londoners might say, "Skipping the queue is bang out of order."
- Unfair treatment: If a friend is treated unjustly, you might hear, "The way they treated you was bang out of order."
- Rude behaviour: When someone is unnecessarily rude, a bystander could comment, "Being rude to the waiter is bang out of order."
Other Common London Slang
Apples and Pears
This classic Cockney rhyming slang translates to "stairs." So, if you're ever told to "climb the apples and pears," you'll know to head up the stairs.
Long
In London slang, "long" describes something tedious or overly complicated. For example, "Going to the post office during lunch hour is so long."
Peng
A term used to describe something or someone attractive. You might hear, "That restaurant serves peng food," or "She's looking peng tonight."
Cultural Influences on London Slang
London's slang is a testament to its cultural melting pot. The city's language has absorbed elements from various immigrant communities, creating a dynamic and evolving lexicon. From Caribbean Patois to South Asian languages, these influences shape the way Londoners speak today.
Table of Common London Slang
A Handy Guide to London Slang
| Slang Term |
Meaning |
Example |
| Bang Out of Order |
Unacceptable or unfair |
"Skipping the queue is bang out of order." |
| Apples and Pears |
Stairs |
"Climb the apples and pears to reach the office." |
| Long |
Tedious or complicated |
"Filling out all these forms is so long." |
| Peng |
Attractive |
"That new cafe has peng desserts." |
Whether you're a tourist trying to navigate the vibrant streets of London or a local keen to stay updated with the ever-evolving slang, understanding these phrases can enrich your experience of the city. So next time you hear someone say something is "bang out of order," you'll know exactly what they mean!
