Is mantelpiece a U?

Whether you said ‘chimneypiece’ (U) or ‘mantelpiece’ (non-U). Today, having a bathtub at all is a sign of leisure, and therefore U (showers being much more common in every sense), while having a fireplace has become similarly recherché – and therefore U – in an age of remotely controlled central heating.

Is saying loo posh?

Yes, the humble toilet has been deemed too common for posh people. According to Hanson, the word’s origins come from the French word ‘toilette’ which is used to describe someone’s appearance. You really wouldn’t want to look like a toilet would you? Loo or lavatory are much more acceptable.

Is serviette or napkin posh?

Serviette is at the top of the list as a class delineator, along with lavatory (posh) instead of toilet (twee). (It makes for interesting reading.) So some words are posher (although the term posh is not posh, unless it’s used ironically).

What do posh people say instead of toilet?

Toilet: According to Kate, this term is detested because of its French origins. The royal family apparently say ‘loo’ or ‘lavatory’ instead. Kate says you should never use the terms ‘gents’, ‘ladies’ ‘bathroom’ or ‘powder room’. 3.

Why are fish knives non-U?

Why fish knives etc are Non-U (in French, the language of polite behaviour, equivalent to ‘Shame on you!’)

Is it posh to say pardon?

Many of you will believe that ‘pardon’ is only polite. Nannies and schools will often educate children to respond with a nice, polite ‘pardon’ that will rather horrify patrician parents. But the thing about ‘pardon’ is, it is certainly polite and respectful – which is not to be underestimated.

What is a Carsey?

Noun. carsey (plural carseys) Alternative form of khazi: an outhouse; a lavatory.

Is saying toilet rude?

It’s not rude to say “toilet” in America. But the word “toilet” refers only to the porcelain fixture, not to the room it is located in. The room in which the toilet is located is correctly called a bathroom, restroom, lavatory, washroom, convenience, comfort station, powder room, or any of several other options.

Should you say pudding or dessert?

A pudding usually is a dish of more homely or rustic. A dessert is lighter and more sophisticated, such as chocolate mousse. However, the word Dessert is rarely used by the British upper class. Some fine restaurants and private clubs would use Pudding to refer to the sweet course.

Is loo a bad word?

1. Toilet. It’s a harsh word that was adapted from the French toilette which means your appearance, hence toiletries bag. Lavatory or loo is much more acceptable.

What is the meaning of non-U?

(of language or social behaviour) not characteristic of the upper social classes; not socially acceptable to certain people. ‘For someone who had aspirations of becoming London’s top citizen, he ought to be aware that metal watchbands are non-U in the best circles.’

What is the meaning of U in English?

(School)master, mistress. Teacher. U and non-U English usage, with “U” standing for “upper class”, and “non-U” representing the aspiring middle classes, was part of the terminology of popular discourse of social dialects (sociolects) in Britain in the 1950s.

What is the origin of you and non-U words?

The discussion was set in motion in 1954 by the British linguist Alan S. C. Ross, professor of linguistics in the University of Birmingham. He coined the terms “U” and “non-U” in an article, on the differences that social class makes in English language usage, published in a Finnish professional linguistics journal.

What is the meaning of non-upper class?

Definition of non-U. : not characteristic of the upper classes.