New York City: a place so unique, it has its own language. If you’re not from the Big Apple, some things New Yorkers say might leave you scratching your head. Here’s a list of phrases that are quintessentially New York. Get ready to talk like a local!
1. “I’m Walking Here!”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / stockfour
This phrase is more than just words; it’s a declaration of a pedestrian’s right to the sidewalk. It epitomizes the busy, fast-paced New York lifestyle.
2. “Bodega”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alex King Pics
Not just any corner store, a bodega is a New York institution, selling everything from coffee to cat food, often with a beloved cat roaming the aisles.
3. “The City”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / ymgerman
To New Yorkers, “The City” always means Manhattan, regardless of the fact that NYC is made up of five boroughs.
4. “Stand in Line”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gena Melendrez
Forget about standing ‘in’ line. In New York, you stand ‘on’ line, whether you’re waiting for a bagel or a Broadway show.
5. “Schmear”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / MSPhotographic
Want cream cheese on your bagel? In New York, you ask for a “schmear.” It’s the perfect amount of cream cheese spread.
6. “Pie”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / YARUNIV Studio
Ordering a ‘pie’ in New York usually means a whole pizza, not a dessert.
7. “Forget About It”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dmytro Zinkevych
It’s either used to say something is unbelievable or to indicate that the topic is not worth discussing further. It’s all about the tone.
8. “The LIRR”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Matej Kastelic
This stands for the Long Island Rail Road, a major commuter train network serving Long Island and parts of Queens and Brooklyn.
9. “Regular Coffee”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Aleksandrs Muiznieks
In New York, a “regular coffee” is with cream and two sugars. No need to specify unless you want something different.
10. “Bridge and Tunnel”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / oneinchpunch
This term is used somewhat pejoratively to describe people who commute to Manhattan from surrounding areas, not using the subway.
11. “Fuhgeddaboudit”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Krakenimages.com
A more New Yorker way to say “forget about it,” emphasizing a very strong opinion or the impossibility of a situation.
12. “Slice”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Luna Vandoorne
When New Yorkers say they’re getting a “slice,” they mean a slice of pizza. It’s a staple of New York diets.
13. “Uptown” and “Downtown”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / littlenySTOCK
These terms are used to describe direction within Manhattan. “Uptown” is north, and “Downtown” is south. Very important for navigating the subway!
14. “MetroCard”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ben Harding
The key to public transportation in NYC. It’s used to pay for rides on buses and subways.
15. “The Subway”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Felix Lipov
In many cities, it’s called the metro, underground, or tube. In New York, it’s always “the subway.”
16. “Gravy”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Natalia Hanin
In some New York Italian households, “gravy” refers to tomato sauce, especially when it’s meat-based.
17. “NoHo” and “SoHo”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / stockelements
Short for “North of Houston Street” and “South of Houston Street,” these are trendy neighborhoods in Manhattan known for their art galleries and shops.
18. “Boroughs”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / pisaphotography
New York City is made up of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Each has its own unique character.
19. “Deadass”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / evrymmnt
This term is used for emphasis, equivalent to “seriously” or “for real.”
20. “The Village”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ryan DeBerardinis
Refers to Greenwich Village, a neighborhood known for its bohemian lifestyle, arts scene, and vibrant nightlife.
21. “The Train”
Image Credit: Shutterstock / littlenySTOCK
When a New Yorker says they’re taking “the train,” they mean the subway, not an above-ground train.
Learn the Lingo
Image Credit: Shutterstock / wavebreakmedia
Whether you’re visiting for a slice or staying for a schmear, knowing these phrases will help you navigate New York City like a local. So, next time you’re standing on line for a bagel, you’ll fit right in. Welcome to New York!
18 Countries That Don’t Want American Visitors
Image Credit: Shutterstock / InesBazdar
It’s time for a reality check, American travelers. As you pack your bags and head overseas, ready to stamp your passport, it’s becoming glaringly obvious that not every destination is thrilled to see you. 18 Countries That Don’t Want American Visitors
18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iryna Inshyna
American cities promise rich culture and unforgettable experiences, but rising crime rates can catch travelers off guard. This guide helps you stay safe while fully enjoying your adventures. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
What Cruise Lines Don’t Want You to Know: 20 Candid Insights
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pavel L Photo and Video
Thinking about booking a cruise for your next getaway? Let’s have a real talk first. While cruising might seem like a breezy way to see the world, there are a few not-so-sunny truths that might make you reconsider. What Cruise Lines Don’t Want You to Know: 20 Candid Insights
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Luciano Mortula – LGM.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional advice.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.
You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations. Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip
PassingThru is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
To view PassingThru’s privacy policy, click here.
