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New York is a state of hustle, hustle, and more hustle. From the towering skyscrapers of New York City to the serene beauty of the Adirondacks, the Empire State has its own unique blend of slang that’s as fast-paced, diverse, and iconic as its people. Whether you’re catching a cab in Manhattan, enjoying a bagel in Brooklyn, or hiking the Catskills, these 17 New York slang terms will help you talk like a true local in no time.
The City
In New York, “The City” doesn’t need clarification—it always refers to New York City. “I’m taking the train into The City for work today.”
Schlep
To carry something, usually a heavy or burdensome load, often used when talking about dragging your stuff across the city. “I had to schlep my groceries all the way from the store.”
Fuhgeddaboudit
A phrase used to express disbelief, frustration, or dismissal—commonly associated with a New York accent. “You think I’m going to walk all the way there? Fuhgeddaboudit!”
Bodega
A small convenience store, usually open 24 hours, that sells everything from snacks to coffee and milk. “I’m running to the bodega for some chips.”
Pie
A term for pizza, especially when referring to a whole pizza rather than a slice. “Let’s grab a pie from the pizzeria down the street.”
Bridge and Tunnel
A term for people who live outside of Manhattan, especially in the outer boroughs or surrounding areas, and must cross bridges or tunnels to get into the city. “She’s from Long Island, so she’s one of the bridge and tunnel crowd.”
Yankee
Refers to someone from New York, particularly from the northern part of the state, but it’s also tied to the legendary New York Yankees baseball team. “I’m a lifelong Yankee fan, no question.”
Sunnyside Up
Refers to a specific style of cooked eggs, but it’s also used to describe someone who is cheerful or optimistic. “That guy’s always so sunny—he’s definitely got the Sunnyside Up vibe.”
The Bronx Cheer
Another term for blowing a raspberry (the noise), usually used to show disapproval or mockery. “He told me he could beat me at chess? Gave him a Bronx cheer for that.”
The Hamptons
A set of upscale beach towns on Long Island known for being a vacation destination for the wealthy. “We’re heading out to The Hamptons for the weekend to relax.”
Take the A Train
Refers to riding the subway, particularly the A Line, a popular route through Manhattan. “I’m going to take the A train down to Times Square to catch the show.”
Knish
A traditional pastry filled with potatoes or meat, often found at Jewish delis in New York. “I stopped by the deli for a knish and a pastrami sandwich.”
New York Minute
Refers to how quickly time seems to pass in New York, as everything moves at a rapid pace. “You could blink, and a New York minute would pass—things never slow down.”
Bagels and Lox
A classic New York breakfast dish, with bagels, smoked salmon (lox), onions, and capers. “Let’s grab some bagels and lox before we hit the office.”
Jersey Shore
Though it’s located across the state line, the Jersey Shore is a part of the New York metropolitan area, especially popular for weekend getaways. “We’re heading to the Jersey Shore for a little summer fun this weekend.”
Coney Island
A world-famous amusement area located in Brooklyn, known for its boardwalk, hot dogs, and the Cyclone roller coaster. “Let’s go to Coney Island and grab some hot dogs before the ride.”
The Village
Refers to Greenwich Village, a well-known neighborhood in Manhattan, famous for its history, arts scene, and nightlife. “We’re going to The Village to catch a comedy show tonight.”
Now that you’re armed with some classic New York slang, you’re ready to blend in with the locals, whether you’re eating pizza, navigating the subway, or taking in the city’s diverse neighborhoods. From “fuhgeddaboudit” to “The City,” these terms capture the unique character of New York—fast, full of life, and always unforgettable. Welcome to the Empire State, where everything moves a little faster, and there’s always something to do!
The post These 17 Slang Terms Only Make Sense If You Live in New York appeared first on When In Your State.