Celebrating St Patrick’s Day in the UAE this year? Make sure you know these phrases
With thousands of Irish people calling the UAE home, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi are always lively. From packed brunches to late-night pub sessions, it’s one of the biggest international celebrations of the year. And if you find yourself celebrating with Irish friends, you might notice the English sounds… slightly different. Irish slang can often leave newcomers confused, so here are some phrases to be aware of if you’re celebrating in the UAE this March 17.
What’s the craic?
Probably the most famous Irish phrase. “Craic” means fun, gossip or what’s going on.
Example: “What’s the craic for St. Patrick’s Day in Dubai?”
Grand
In Ireland, “grand” doesn’t mean luxurious, it just means fine or okay.
Example: “Yeah that brunch was grand.”
Sound
A way to describe someone who is nice or decent.
Example: “The staff there are sound.”
Gas
If something is “gas”, it means it’s very funny.
Example: “That story about last year was gas.”
Wearing
Someone who is annoying or tiring.
Example: “He’s absolutely wearing”
Giving out
Complaining.
Example: “Everyone’s giving out about the queues for taxis.”
The Jacks
The toilet.
Example: “Where are the jacks in this place?”
Eejit
A fool or someone being silly. Often said affectionately.
Example: “You left your phone in the taxi again, ya eejit.”
Fair play
Used to praise someone or acknowledge something good.
Example: “You organised the whole St. Patrick’s brunch? Fair play.”
A rake of
Meaning “a lot of”.
Example: “There were a rake of Irish people at that brunch.”
Savage
Something very good or impressive.
Example: “That Irish band was savage.”
Yer man / Yer wan
A casual way of referring to someone whose name you don’t know.
Example: “Yer man at the bar bought a round.”
Buzzing
Very excited or happy.
Example: “I’m buzzing for St. Patrick’s Day.”
Also read: 16 of the best Irish bars in Dubai to celebrate St Patrick’s Day
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