Being a displaced Yankee, I’m being forced to learn an entire new language that I fondly refer to as Southern. Every demographic has their own vernacular, but the one with the most differences seems to be the South vs. North.
I’ve been in Florida about six months now, and I find myself slipping back and forth between “You all” and “Y’all”. At times I’m sure it sounds like some distorted mix of urban English and Pig Latin. But when in Rome….
I’ve picked out the top 5 Southern words which I seem to have problems converting to, in no order in particular.
#5. Soda or Coke vs. Pop.
If it’s not being referred to as Coke, the next choice here is soda. I have no clue what Kiel is, though. Might have to look into this strange animal…
#4. Buggy vs. Cart
I seem to have the biggest problem with this one due to my job. Unfortunately I encounter a massive amount of carts, I mean buggies, every day.
#3. Pocketbook vs. Purse
I don’t have too big of a problem concerning this one. You wouldn’t catch me carrying either.
#2. Clicker vs Remote
In my experience, using the garage door opener, i.e. ‘clicker’, to change the channel will result in failure.
#5. Sweeper vs. Vacuum
I’m sure there are many more. And I’m sure the longer I live in Florida, the more I will learn and adopt.
I just hope I don’t start sounding like a redneck. That’s where I have to draw the line. If I do, I hope that one of my peeps from the north set’s me straight. Got to stay true to my roots, y’all. k
