Explore 15 charming Scottish words and phrases that will brighten your day

Daily Record

01-05-2025

Life is hard and sometimes we all need a bit of cheering up - and nothing will lift your spirits quite like the Scots language and some of the quirkly words and phrases we use.
Life can be tough, and we all need that little pick-me-up from time-to-time to get us through the day.
If you're in need of a smile, the Scots language is your go-to.
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For hundreds of years, Scots have crafted some of the most beautiful and unforgettable words and phrases that continue to resonate today.
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Whether you're craving a 'coorie' with a loved one or simply need to remind yourself that 'whit's fur ye'll no go by ye', here are 15 Scottish words and phrases that will hopefully lift your spirits.
If you're from Scotland, chances are you've heard at least a few of these expressions - you might even know them all.
Even so, nothing quite brightens your day like reciting these charming Scottish words and phrases you might use daily or haven't heard in years.
Here's a few Scottish words and phrases that will hopefully bring a smile to your face.
It's gaein be awricht ance the pain has gane awa
This literally translates to 'it is going to be alright once the pain has gone away'. It basically means that everything is going to be ok, and you are going to get through whatever difficulty you are currently dealing with.
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Coorie
This cute Scots word means 'to cuddle or nestle in', especially when it is cold. With the temperature dropping lately, you may be using this one more than you thought you would in the middle of spring.
Smeddum
Meaning 'mettle', 'determination', 'drive', or 'spirit', this is a good word to remember if you are currently going through hard times and need to pick yourself up.
We're a' Jock Tamson's bairns
Believed to originate in the Lowlands of Scotland, this phrase translates to 'We are all Jack Tamson's - or John Thomson - children'. If you're confused, Reverend John Thomson was a beloved minister of Duddingston Kirk in the 19th century who called his congregation 'ma bairns' - so the phrase basically means that we're all human beings.
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Gloaming
Sometimes nothing can put a smile on your face quite like taking in some pretty scenery - and we're obviously not short of that in Scotland. The word 'gloaming' refers to twilight or dusk when things are particularly picturesque.
Smourich
If you say 'smourich' really fast, it sounds a bit like 'smooch' - and that is exactly what this word means.
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Failin means yer playin
If you are feeling like a failure or that you can't get anything right, this phrase is an important one to remember. Translating to 'failing means you're playing', it means that even taking part or making an attempt at something is impressive.
Scran
If you've spent any time in Scotland at all, you'll surely know that scran means food. Sometimes, it is the little joys that get you through the day, so if you are feeling low why not make or buy yourself a nice meal - or scran?
Stravaig
For those times when the world can get to be too much, maybe some stravaiging is what you need. This means 'to wander about aimlessly' and it is certainly true that some fresh air can clear your head.
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Keep the heid
You will have no doubt have heard the phrase 'keep calm and carry on' or seen it plastered on cushions or mugs. This phrase basically means the same thing - to not let circumstances get the best of you.
Dinnae Fash Yersel
This phrase simply means 'don't worry yourself'. It's a good one to use when a loved one seems overwhelmed or stressed as a way of comforting them.
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Crouss
To be 'crouss' means to be happy or cheerful. It's okay to be sad but remember that things will get better and you will be crouss once again!
It's a lang road that's no goat a turnin
This tells us not to lose heart when things seem bleak, as things can't go in the same direction forever. Basically, things have to change at some point - even if it's not today.
Whit's fur ye'll no go by ye
If you miss out on an opportunity to do something or didn't get that all-important promotion you had your heart set on, this is a great phrase to remember. Translating to 'what is for you will not go by you', it means that everything always happens for a reason.
Lang may yer lum reek
Traditionally this phrase is uttered at Hogmanay and translates to 'long may your chimney smoke'. It's an expression of good wishes that you tell someone when you wish them all the best, particularly at the New Year.