Are you curious about how to express the state of being intoxicated in British English? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various formal and informal ways to say “drunk” in British English. We’ll also touch upon regional variations, although they may not be as commonly used throughout the entire country. So, let’s dive in and discover the rich vocabulary British English offers when it comes to expressing this particular state of inebriation.
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Formal Ways to Say Drunk in British
When it comes to formal situations, British English tends to use more subtle or euphemistic expressions to describe being drunk. Here are some formal phrases you can use to denote someone’s intoxicated state:
1. Inebriated
The term “inebriated” is a classic, formal way to describe being drunk. While it may not be commonly used in everyday conversations, you might encounter it in written material, legal documents, or more formal settings. For instance, you might say, “He appeared inebriated during the meeting,” to politely describe someone’s drunken state.
2. Intoxicated
Another formal word, “intoxicated,” is often associated with the consumption of alcohol. It can be used in various situations where formality is required, such as legal contexts, official reports, or medical discussions. For example, a doctor might explain, “The patient arrived at the hospital intoxicated, showing signs of alcohol-induced impairment.”
3. Under the Influence
When someone is significantly affected by alcohol or another substance, you can say they are “under the influence.” This phrase is often used by authorities or in legal proceedings to describe the impairment caused by alcohol. For instance, a police officer might state, “The driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.”
Informal Ways to Say Drunk in British
In casual conversations or less formal settings, British English has a range of lively and expressive idioms to describe being drunk. These phrases are more commonly used among friends, in pubs, or during social gatherings. Here are some fun and informal ways to convey someone’s drunken state:
1. Hammered
Often used in British slang, “hammered” is an informal term that vividly describes someone who is extremely drunk. For example, you might hear someone say, “He got completely hammered at the party last night!”
2. Sloshed
“Sloshed” is another informal expression used to convey a state of being heavily under the influence of alcohol. You might hear people say, “After downing that bottle of wine, she got completely sloshed!”
3. Blotto
The word “blotto” is a lively British term for someone who is extremely drunk. This informal expression carries a sense of being so intoxicated that the person is beyond being able to control themselves. You might hear someone exclaim, “I can’t believe he was blotto after just a few drinks!”
Regional Variations
While many of the phrases mentioned above are commonly used throughout Britain, there are some regional variations worth exploring. Certain regions within the UK may have their own unique expressions to describe being drunk. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Plastered
In some parts of the UK, such as London or the southeast, you might hear people use the term “plastered” to describe being drunk. This informal expression is similar to “hammered” and denotes a state of extreme intoxication. Someone could say, “After a night at the pub, he was completely plastered!”
2. Legless
In certain regions, like Northern England or Scotland, the term “legless” is used to convey the state of being drunk. This expression suggests the loss of control over one’s legs due to heavy alcohol consumption. For instance, a friend might jokingly remark, “He couldn’t even stand up straight; he was completely legless!”
Pro tip: When using slang or informal phrases to describe someone as drunk, it’s important to consider the context in which you’re speaking. Some phrases may be lighthearted and jovial, while others might be seen as derogatory or offensive. Always gauge the situation and adjust your language accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, British English offers a diverse range of formal and informal ways to say “drunk.” From the subtle and sophisticated to the lively and expressive, there are various terms to suit any situation. Whether you’re having a formal conversation or enjoying a night out with friends, you now have a wealth of vocabulary to describe someone’s intoxicated state.
Remember to use formal phrases like “inebriated,” “intoxicated,” or “under the influence” for more professional occasions. In informal settings, feel free to embrace the colorful idioms such as “hammered,” “sloshed,” or “blotto.” Just be mindful of regional variations like “plastered” or “legless” when conversing with people from specific regions within the UK.
So go ahead, confidently express yourself and describe someone as “drunk” in British English. With this guide, you’re equipped with an extensive repertoire of phrases that will impress both natives and language enthusiasts alike!
