New Yorkers have a language all their own—fast, sharp, and full of attitude. Here are some classic and hilarious phrases you’ll only hear in the Empire State (and especially in NYC):
1. “I’m walkin’ here!”
The unofficial battle cry of New Yorkers, famously shouted at cars that dare to interrupt a pedestrian’s stride.
2. “Fuhgeddaboudit”
Translation: Forget about it. Used to express everything from agreement to disbelief, depending on tone.
3. “What are you, from Jersey?”
A playful (or not-so-playful) jab at anyone who doesn’t seem to “get” the city.
4. “The City”
As in, “I’m going to the City.” (Even if you’re already in one.) For New Yorkers, “the City” always means Manhattan.
5. “It’s brick out”
No, it’s not about construction. “Brick” means it’s freezing cold outside.
6. “Schlep”
Borrowed from Yiddish, it means to carry or drag something (or yourself) somewhere, usually with effort.
7. “On line” (not “in line”)
New Yorkers stand “on line” at the bodega, not “in line.” Don’t ask why—just go with it.
8. “Bodega”
A small neighborhood convenience store, often open late and selling everything from sandwiches to toilet paper.
9. “Pie” (meaning pizza)
If someone asks if you want a “pie,” they mean a whole pizza, not dessert.
10. “Not for nothin’, but…”
A classic way to preface a brutally honest opinion or piece of advice.
11. “The LIRR is delayed again”
A phrase of exasperation, referencing the Long Island Rail Road’s infamous schedule issues.
12. “You good?”
A quick way to check in on someone, meaning “Are you okay?” or “Do you need anything?”
13. “Mad” (as an intensifier)
As in, “That’s mad expensive” or “It’s mad crowded.” It just means “very.”
14. “Uptown, downtown, crosstown”
Directions in New York are always relative to the subway and the city’s grid.
15. “Only in New York”
Said with a shake of the head, this phrase covers everything from a rat stealing pizza to a celebrity sighting on the subway.
Bonus:
If you ever hear, “Hey, I’m walkin’ here!” and “Fuhgeddaboudit” in the same conversation, congratulations—you’re officially in New York.
Welcome to the city that never sleeps, and never runs out of things to say!
Sources:
- https://passingthru.com/classic-new-york-sayings/
- https://www.humancareny.com/blog/new-york-slang-unveiling-big-apples-slang-phrases
- https://www.ultimatecareny.com/resources/new-york-slang
- https://www.berlitz.com/blog/new-york-nyc-slang