Louisiana’s rich blend of Cajun, Creole, and Southern cultures has produced a treasure trove of funny, colorful, and downright unique expressions. Here are some of the most memorable phrases you’ll only hear in the Bayou State:
Classic Louisiana Sayings
“How’s ya momma an’ ’em?”
Translation: “How is your family?” This phrase is a warm, all-encompassing greeting that checks in on your entire clan, with special emphasis on your mother.
“Go do-do.”
Translation: “Take a nap.” Parents tell their kids to “go do-do” when it’s time to rest.
“Making groceries”
Translation: Grocery shopping. In Louisiana, you don’t “buy groceries”—you “make groceries”.
“Pass a good time”
Translation: Have fun! Used when encouraging someone to enjoy themselves at a party or event.
“Laissez les bons temps rouler!”
Translation: “Let the good times roll!” This Cajun French phrase is the unofficial motto of Louisiana, especially during Mardi Gras.
“Lagniappe” (lan-yap)
Translation: “A little something extra.” Whether it’s a bonus treat or a surprise, lagniappe is always appreciated.
“Cher” (sha)
Translation: “Dear” or “sweetheart.” A term of endearment you’ll hear everywhere, from shops to family gatherings.
“Where y’at?”
Translation: “How are you?” or “What’s up?” A classic greeting in New Orleans.
“Neutral ground”
Translation: The median or grassy strip between lanes on a boulevard, especially in New Orleans.
“Brake tag”
Translation: Vehicle inspection sticker. “I gotta get my brake tag renewed.”
Quirky Cajun & Creole Expressions
“Pinch the tail, suck the head”
Translation: The proper way to eat boiled crawfish—break off the tail to eat the meat, then suck the juices from the head.
“Fais do-do” (fay doh-doh)
Translation: A Cajun dance party, or a way to tell kids to go to sleep.
“Get down”
Translation: To get out of a car or off a wagon, as in “Get down and come in!”.
“J’eet?”
Translation: “Did you eat?” Often heard as a quick greeting.
“Allons!” (a-low-n)
Translation: “Let’s go!” A rallying cry for action or fun.
“Lache pas la patate!”
Translation: “Don’t give up!” (Literally: “Don’t let go of the potato!”).
Everyday Louisiana Lingo
“Po’ boy, dressed”
Translation: A po’ boy sandwich “dressed” means it comes with all the fixings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
“Yea you right!”
Translation: An enthusiastic agreement, similar to “absolutely!”.
“Pass by ya house”
Translation: To visit someone’s home, as in “I’ll pass by ya house later.”
“You good?”
Translation: Can mean “Are you okay?” or “Do you need anything?”—context is everything.
Sources:
- https://matadornetwork.com/read/19-words-expressions-learn-traveling-louisiana/
- https://www.explorelouisiana.com/articles/how-speak-cajun
- https://www.explorelouisiana.com/articles/you-arrive-learn-local-lingo
- https://nolapyrateweek.com/contacts-maps/louisiana-lingo-who-dat-where-yat/