The phrases only a Scottish gran would say that you'll remember from childhood

SHETLAND ISLANDS, SCOTLAND - 1st JUNE: View of an elderly woman knitting a Fair Isle style jumper by a gas fire in the living room of a cottage on one of the Shetland Islands in June 1970. (Photo by Chris Morphet/Redferns)
No one has a way with words quite like a Scottish gran -Credit:Chris Morphet/Redferns


Anyone growing up in Scotland or around Scottish relatives will remember plenty of colourful phrases from their childhood.

We are all familiar with the confusion that came when our granny spoke some words of wisdom but we had no idea what they were actually saying. Looking back though, everything they said made total sense.

If you were lucky enough to have a Scottish gran around the house, then you will know that they are a source of endless amazing expressions. There are no doubt plenty of them that you still remember to this day, or even use yourself.

Whether she was telling you to make the most of your life, warning you not to speak nonsense, or doing a bit of gossiping, one thing is very clear — nobody has a way with words quite Scottish grannies.

To celebrate all of the grans, nannas, nonnas, and grandmas out there, the Daily Record has compiled a list of the very best phrases that they say. From "you're a long time deid" to "don't be a wee clype", these will definitely take you back in time.

Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments below!

SHETLAND ISLANDS, SCOTLAND - 1st JUNE: Two elderly women knitting Fair Isle style jumpers pose in the living room of a cottage on one of the Shetland Islands in June 1970. (Photo by Chris Morphet/Redferns)
How many of these classic phrases and expressions do you remember? -Credit:Chris Morphet/Redferns

The phrases only a Scottish granny would say

  • If the wind changes yer face will stay like that — Don't make stupid faces or it might get stuck like that

  • Whits fur ye will no go by ye — Whatever is meant to be will not pass you by

  • Don't talk mince — Do not speak nonsense

  • You're a long time deid — Make the most of your life while you have it

  • He's no a bean tae his name — He has absolutely no money

  • Och, away an' bile yer heid — Go and boil your head (get lost)

  • Don't be a wee clype — Stop being a tattle-tale

  • She's up to high doh — She is very nervous or excited

  • I'll skite ye across the ear — I will slap you on the side of the head

  • I loved gone to the dancing — I used to like to attending the dance hall when I was young

  • I'm away my messages — I am going out to pick up my shopping

  • Stoap footering wae that — Don't fidget with that

  • I wiz absolutely drookit — I was completely soaked

  • He's a glakit-looking yin — He is a foolish-looking one

  • You wanting a piece? — Do you want a sandwich?

  • Oh jings! — Oh dear!

  • She's a sleekit yin — She is a cunning one

  • He wiz keekin roon the door — He was peeking inside from around the door

  • He hud te huv a stookie oan his erm — He needed to have a cast put on his arm

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