18 Slang Phrases That Will Have You Talking Like a New Yorker!

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Ah, New York—the city that never sleeps! It’s the place where skyscrapers touch the clouds and pizza slices are an essential part of life. But beyond its famous landmarks, New York City has a language all its own.

Whether you’re walking through Times Square or catching the subway to Brooklyn, you’ll hear words and phrases that might leave you scratching your head. So, grab a coffee, sit back, and let’s explore some popular New York slang that only makes sense if you’re from the Empire State!

1. The City

When a New Yorker says “the City,” they’re talking about Manhattan. For locals, it’s the heart of New York, and no other city compares.

2. Bodega

This is your go-to corner store where you can find anything—from sandwiches to toothpaste—at all hours of the day or night. Need a snack or some batteries? The bodega has you covered.

3. Schlep

This word is used when someone has to carry something heavy or travel a long distance, often with a bit of frustration. For example, “I had to schlep this giant suitcase from Queens!”

4. Pie

In New York, when someone says “Let’s grab a pie,” they’re not talking about dessert. They mean pizza—a full pizza, to be exact. New Yorkers love their pizza, and it’s a must-have when you’re in the city.

5. Brick

This word has nothing to do with buildings. In New York, “brick” means it’s cold outside. If someone says, “It’s brick out today,” you’d better grab a coat!

6. Deadass

If a New Yorker says they’re “deadass,” they mean they’re being completely serious. It’s used to show how truthful or sincere someone is being, like “I’m deadass not kidding.”

7. Mad

This isn’t just about being angry. In New York, “mad” is used to emphasize something. For instance, “It’s mad crowded on the subway today” means it’s crowded.

8. The LIRR

Short for Long Island Rail Road, the LIRR is the train that connects the city to Long Island. For Long Islanders, it’s the main way to commute into Manhattan.

9. Guap

If you’ve got “guap,” you’ve got a lot of money. People often use it to describe spending big, like “He dropped mad guap on those sneakers.”

10. Real Talk

When someone says “real talk,” they want you to know they’re being honest. It’s a way to show they’re serious, like “Real talk, that was the best pizza I’ve ever had.”

11. The Bridge and Tunnel Crowd

This phrase refers to people who come into the city from the suburbs for a night out. It’s often used in a light-hearted way, but it highlights the difference between city dwellers and visitors.

12. Son

In New York, “son” is a term of emphasis or affection, even when talking to someone who isn’t your child. For example, “Son, you won’t believe what just happened!”

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13. The Boogie Down

This is a nickname for the Bronx, celebrating its rich culture and its role in the birth of hip-hop.

14. Tight

When a New Yorker says they’re “tight,” it means they’re upset or annoyed. For example, “I’m tight because the train is late again.”

15. Yerrr

A loud greeting you’ll often hear shouted across streets or subways. It’s a way to get someone’s attention, and it’s a New York thing!

16. Cop

This word means to buy or grab something, like “I’m about to cop those new shoes.”

17. OD

Short for “overdoing it,” OD is used when something is excessive. For example, “That homework was OD hard!”

18. Stoop

A stoop is a set of steps leading up to a building, and in New York, it’s a prime spot for hanging out and people-watching.

Now that you know some of the key terms, you’ll be talking like a local in no time. Whether you’re grabbing a slice of pizza or catching the LIRR, these slang words will help you blend right into the Big Apple.