Lifestyle

Translating 5 Popular ‘Texanisms’

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Texas is famously known for its local drawl and also unique expressions called “Texanisms” that are solely reserved for the loud and proud Lone Star State. Here are a few that we Texans have laid claim to over the years.

1. “Howdy”

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Photo: Flickr/Joe Haupt

“Howdy” is the most enduring way countless generations of Texans have greeted each other. This is especially true in rural areas and the many small towns that make up this big great state.

2. “This Ain’t My First Rodeo”

Image result for rodeo
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Rodeos can be pretty intimidating, and even a bit scary for first timers. This ain’t my first rodeo” is a saying that expresses that a Texan is experienced and unafraid.

3. “Y’all” and “All Y’all”

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Photo: Public Domain Pictures

Y’all is the most popular saying in Texas. It is short for “you all.” “All ya’ll” is essentially a plural form, meaning it refers to a group.

4. “Everything’s Bigger in Texas”

Image result for bigger in texas
Photo: Flickr/Drew Tarvin

Everything is bigger in Texas. Texas is the largest state in the contiguous United States spanning a massive area of 268,820 square miles. Due to the size of Texas and its enormous pride, it easy to see why perhaps the saying still remains.

5. “Bless Your Heart”

Bless your Heart! 2
Photo: Sunfrog (Available for purchase in our store!)

Bless your heart is a veiled way of insulting a person while appearing polite. Most of the time “bless your heart” is a nice way of conveying that the person is calling the other person stupid.

“Texanisms” have been around for generations, and will continue to remain a solid part of the Texan vernacular. Stick around for a hot minute and before you know it, you will be fluent in Texan, too.