If you’ve ever had a conversation in Manchester where you understood every word but still somehow missed the meaning, you’re not alone. Mancunian slang is subtle. It’s woven into everyday speech so casually that nobody thinks to explain it. Locals just assume you’ll pick it up — and eventually, you do.
Until then, here’s a guide to some of the most common Manchester slang terms, explained properly, with context, not dictionary definitions.
“Our Kid”
This is usually the first phrase that confuses people. Despite how it sounds, “our kid” rarely refers to an actual child. Most of the time, it means a sibling — often a younger brother or sister, but not always. It can also refer to a close friend, especially someone you’ve known forever.
It’s a term of affection and familiarity. When someone says “our kid,” there’s usually a sense of loyalty attached to it. You might hear it used when defending someone or talking about family plans. It’s warm, casual, and very Manchester.
“Sound”
“Sound” is possibly the most versatile word in Manchester slang. It can mean okay, good, reliable, or agreed. If someone asks, “We meeting at seven?” and the answer is “Sound,” the plan is confirmed. No follow-up needed.
People can be sound. Places can be sound. Situations can be sound. The meaning depends entirely on tone and context, which is why it takes newcomers a while to get comfortable using it themselves.
“Mint”
If something’s mint, it’s good — sometimes very good. You’ll hear this about food, weather, nights out, and even people. Saying something was “proper mint” is high praise by Manchester standards.
Mancs aren’t big on overhyping things, so calling something mint usually means it genuinely delivered.
“Buzzing”
When someone says they’re buzzing, they’re genuinely excited. Not polite excitement — real excitement. You’ll hear this after someone’s booked a holiday, got tickets for a gig, or landed a job they wanted.
It’s one of the more expressive Manchester phrases, and when you hear it, you can usually tell the person means it.
“Scran”
Scran means food, but usually the kind of food you actually need, not fancy plates with tiny portions. It’s practical, filling, and often eaten late at night or after a long day.
If someone says, “Let’s get scran,” they’re not suggesting a fine-dining experience. They’re talking about comfort, convenience, and satisfaction.
“Give Over”
“Give over” is a reaction phrase. It can mean “stop exaggerating,” “I don’t believe you,” or “you’re winding me up.” It’s often used jokingly, especially between friends.
Tone matters here. Said with a laugh, it’s playful. Said sharply, it’s mild annoyance. Either way, it’s rarely serious.
“Chuffed”
To be chuffed is to be pleased — quietly pleased. It’s not about bragging or shouting from the rooftops. It’s more of an internal satisfaction.
If someone says they’re chuffed with something, it means it went well, and they’re genuinely happy about it, even if they don’t make a big deal out of it.
“Mad for It”
Being “mad for it” means being extremely enthusiastic or obsessed with something. It can be sincere or sarcastic, depending on context.
You might hear it about music, football, fitness, or a new hobby someone’s thrown themselves into headfirst.
“It’s Grim”
Grim is one of those words that carries a very specific Manchester energy. It doesn’t necessarily mean awful — just unpleasant, miserable, or inconvenient.
The weather can be grim. A hangover can be grim. Waiting for a delayed tram in the rain is definitely grim.
“Ta”
Short, simple, and used constantly. “Ta” means thank you. You’ll hear it in shops, on buses, and between friends.
It’s casual, friendly, and one of the easiest bits of Manchester slang to pick up.
Final Thoughts
Manchester slang isn’t about sounding cool or different. It’s practical, understated, and rooted in everyday life. Once you start understanding it — and using it without thinking — you’re not just learning the language. You’re settling in.
And if you ever get it wrong? Don’t worry. That’s sound.
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