Although the United States and Britain have had their share of disputes early on in American history, today the two countries are the closest of friends.
In case you were living under a rock, British troops fought alongside US in the global war on terror. That means while our service members are overseas, there’s a solid chance they will encounter members of the British army on a joint mission.
That being said, the British have some popular slang terms that we Americans don’t use but probably should know.
Related: This British soldier may have spared Hitler’s life during WWI
So check out this list of slang terms you just might hear from your British counterparts on your next deployment.
1. “REMF”
This term stands for “rear echelon mother f*cker” which is directed to those service members who have cushy jobs (non-combat related) while stationed in the rear.
2. “Crow Bag”
Reportedly, this hilarious term stems from WWI and means “combat recruit of war.” The title is given to the newest of army newbies fresh out of boot camp.
3. “Lizard”
Meaning, an individual who screws up idiotically. That is all.
4. “Jack”
This term has several different meanings including selfish, lazy, and workshy (unwilling to work). Jack is the guy no one wants in their unit.
Also Read: This British sniper took out six insurgents by detonating a Taliban suicide vest
5. “Ally”
This is one of their more popular slang terms which means stylish, tough or hardworking. In comparison, our American troops wouldn’t use that word to describe a hardcore Marine — just saying.
Bonus: NATO
No, this one doesn’t stand for North Atlantic Treaty Organization like our minds default into thinking. It’s apparently a common phrase meaning a white tea with two sugars.
You can’t make this stuff up.
Check out Liam Brown‘s video below to hear these slang words perfectly pronounced and explained for yourself.
YouTube, LiamBrown