A guide to British slang

Blimey, the British sure have a way with words, don’t they? If you’re headed to the Patriots-Rams game in London, you’re going to want to be sure to have some grasp on the slang used overseas. For instance, did you know that to “slag off” means to make fun of something, or that “innit” is a common way to end a sentence, much like Americans might say, “right?” Here with some help from a Norfolk native now living in London, along with Urban Dictionary, are some common British slang terms.

Football or “footy” refers to soccer overseas. Despite the presence of the Pats and Rams this weekend, American football remains a novelty. I know, imagine that.

In New England, Zoltan Mesko is known as a punter. In England, he’s known as…um, Zoltan Mesko. A “punter” overseas refers to a bettor.

Both men and women play “hockey.” On a field. Without ice. No wonder Canada escaped.

England’s John Terry, Ashley Cole, Joleon Lescott and England’s Scott Parker, from left, looked “gutted” during Euro 2012. “Gutted” is an emotion beyond ‘‘disappointed’’ but not the end of the world.

“Trollied” means drunk, as in taking too much from the drinks trolley.

“Sticky wicket” — A cricket term used to describe when one is between a rock and a hard place.

The Full Monty? No, the “Full English,” a traditional breakfast of sausages, chips, baked beans, bacon, black pudding, and toast. Oh. Yum?

You can always make friends with bacon, but in London you make “buddies.” The “bacon butty” is a bacon sandwich served for breakfast. Who ever said the food stinks?

Sunday morning comes and you’re not having leftovers, you’re enjoying “bubble and squeak,” all fried up for breakfast.

Stairs? Ha. In London you’ll find “apples and pears.” Yeah, we don’t get it either.

Shopping for underwear in London? No, you’re actually shopping for “pants.” Looking for pants? No, you’re looking for “trousers.” Dungarees? Those are overalls.

You might be wearing a sweater in the US, but in London, it’s called a “jumper.”

Sneakers are referred to as “trainers.”

While the British probably wouldn’t refer to royalty as such, a man is considered a “bloke” and a woman is referred to as a “bird.” Here are Prince William and Kate Middleton getting their tash on.

According to the AP, “The land that gave us the poetic cadence of William Shakespeare now places everything into one of two categories: ‘brilliant’ and “rubbish.'” Shades of gray are not permitted. Brilliant does not mean smart or ingenious. It can mean anything from ‘‘OK,’’ ‘’great’’ or ‘‘fun’’ to ‘‘stop asking questions.’’

An umbrella is referred to as a “brolly.” Brilliant.