Geordie, the dialect spoken in Newcastle upon Tyne and the surrounding areas in northeastern England, is known for its distinct language and phrases. If you’re visiting or interacting with Geordies, it’s always polite to greet them in their own language. In this guide, you’ll learn both formal and informal ways to say hello in Geordie, as well as some regional variations. So, let’s dive in and start with the basics!
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Formal Greetings in Geordie
While Geordie is known for its informal and colloquial language, there are still formal ways to greet someone in this unique dialect. Here’s how to say hello in Geordie formally:
1. Wey aye man
This phrase is commonly used and can be translated as “Yes, indeed” or “Absolutely.” It’s a versatile expression that can serve as a polite greeting when meeting someone for the first time.
2. Howay wor kid
“Howay wor kid” is another way to say hello in a formal context. The phrase can be translated as “Come on, our child” and is often used among friends and acquaintances. Using it with someone older or respected shows deference and politeness.
Informal Greetings in Geordie
Geordie is known for its warm and friendly nature, which is reflected in its informal greetings. Whether you’re meeting friends or engaging with locals, these phrases will help you fit right in:
1. Hiya!
“Hiya!” is a common and friendly way to say hello in Geordie. It’s a shortened version of “How are you?” and is used in everyday conversations. Don’t be surprised if you hear Geordies using this greeting frequently.
2. How’ay!
“How’ay!” is an energetic and informal greeting in Geordie. It means “How are you?” and is often used as a greeting among friends or when meeting someone casually. It’s a great way to show enthusiasm and friendliness.
Regional Variations
Geordie is a dialect that varies in different parts of the region. Here are some regional variations of greetings you may come across:
1. Geet walla!
In Gateshead and parts of South Tyneside, “Geet walla!” is a popular way to say hello. It can be roughly translated as “Very well” or “Great.” This phrase showcases the unique regional variation found in Geordie.
2. Weyaye!
In some areas around Northumberland, you may hear locals greet each other with “Weyaye!” This informal phrase is similar to “Hiya!” and is used to say hello in a friendly manner.
Tips for Using Geordie Greetings
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using Geordie greetings:
- 1. Practice the pronunciation: Pay attention to the subtle nuances in pronunciation when learning Geordie greetings. Watching videos or listening to native speakers can be helpful.
- 2. Match your audience: Gauge the formality and familiarity of the situation to choose the appropriate greeting. It’s important to adapt to the context.
- 3. Embrace the warmth: Geordies are known for their friendly nature, so embrace the warmth by using heartfelt greetings. It’ll help you connect with the locals on a deeper level.
“Using Geordie greetings shows your appreciation for the local culture and demonstrates your desire to connect with the people of the region.”
To further immerse yourself in the Geordie dialect, try using greetings in combination with other common phrases like “Howay pet” (Come on, my dear) or “Hadaway and shite” (Go away). These phrases can add authenticity to your conversations and showcase your interest in the local language.
Remember, the key to successfully using Geordie greetings is to approach them with respect and a genuine desire to engage with the local community. Using Geordie phrases can be a fun and memorable way to make meaningful connections during your time in northeastern England.
