A Fun Guide to Common Welsh Phrases
& Wenglish Sayings
If you’ve ever spent time in Wales — or watched the much-loved comedy Gavin & Stacey — you’ll know the Welsh have a wonderfully melodic and warm way of expressing themselves. Whether you’re a visitor, a language lover, or someone looking to add a bit of character to your speech, here’s a cheat sheet to some classic Welshisms you need to know!
“Now in a minute”
Meaning: Sometime soon, but not necessarily immediately. Usage: “I’ll do the dishes now in a minute.” Where you’ll hear it: All over Wales — especially in South Wales.
“Tidy!”
Meaning: Really great or brilliant. Usage: “That gig was tidy last night!” Where you’ll hear it: Common in South Wales Valleys.
“Cwtch”
Meaning: A warm cuddle or safe place. Usage: “Come here and give me a cwtch.” Where you’ll hear it: Beloved across Wales.
“Tamping”
Meaning: Very angry. Usage: “I’m tamping after losing my keys.” Where you’ll hear it: Popular in South Wales.
“Lush”
Meaning: Really nice or lovely. Usage: “That’s a lush view.” Where you’ll hear it: Frequently heard across South Wales.
“Butt”
Meaning: Mate or friend. Usage: “Alright, butt? How’s it going?” Where you’ll hear it: South Wales, especially the valleys.
Welsh Speech Patterns
Adding “isn’t it?” or “is it?” at the end of statements – Gives a sing-song feel, e.g. “That’s lovely, is it?”
Using “by here” and “by there” – Means “here” and “there.” e.g. “Put it by here.”
Repeating words for emphasis – “I do like a nice cuppa, I do.”
North vs South Wales Dialect
While most Welshisms on TV come from South Wales, North Wales has its own distinct style:
North Walians might say “bendigedig” instead of “lush.”
“Where to you?” is more a South Wales phrase — North Walians often simply say “Where you off to?”
Gavin & Stacey
The hit TV show Gavin & Stacey peppered its dialogue with South Wales Welshisms like “cwtch,” “tidy,” and “What’s occurring’?” — making these phrases a cultural phenomenon
Bringing It Into Daily Life
You don’t need to be Welsh to sprinkle these charming phrases into your speech. Whether you call someone “butt,” say “I’ll do it now in a minute,” or offer a heartfelt “cwtch,” these lovely sayings can make conversations warmer and more fun.
