Let’s unpack some fun regional expressions that might just throw you for a loop unless you’re from around there. Ever been offered a “tavern” in South Dakota? You might be surprised to find yourself biting into a meaty sandwich rather than walking into a bar. Over in Maine, being “right out straight” means you’re swamped, not straightforward. And while New Yorkers might “grill” you with a hard stare, in Mississippi, “carry” could simply mean giving someone a lift. Ready to talk the talk as the locals do?

South Dakota: Tavern Smackdown

Most folks think a “tavern” means a bar. South Dakotans? They might be offering you a ground beef sandwich, similar to a sloppy joe. The debate between the two gets heated, with some arguing tomato sauce defines a sloppy joe while taverns typically skip it. But hey, some tavern recipes include ketchup, blurring the lines even further!

Right Out Straight… But Stuck in Maine?

Preply’s survey says “right out straight” means telling the truth. That makes sense, right? Well, in Maine, if you’re “right out straight,” you’re swamped with work – the opposite of getting something straight!

Carrying More Than a Tune in Mississippi

“Carry” in Mississippi? Most folks guessed a gun. And they’d be right, but it can also mean “to drive someone,” like offering your mom a lift to the airport.

The New York State: Not Just a Cliche

New Yorkers use “grill” to mean “stare rudely,” unlike the more common definition of asking a lot of questions. So, if a New Yorker grills you, they might not be after information – just giving you the evil eye!

Gnarly Waves, Not Vibes, in California

We all know “gnarly” from the 1980s as a synonym for cool. But for Californians (especially surfers), a gnarly wave is a giant, intimidating one – anything but chill!

Dirty Bird Takes Flight (and Lands in Your KFC Bucket)

“Dirty bird” can mean an unpleasant person, but Kentuckians also use it for… KFC! Seems like finger-lickin’ good can have a double meaning in the Bluegrass State.

Hawaii’s Grinds: Food, Not the Daily Grind

Survey-takers thought “grinds” meant working hard in Hawaii, just like everywhere else. But in the Aloha State, it’s actually slang for food, often spelled “grindz.”

Borrowing More Than a Book: Montana’s Borrow Pit

A borrow pit is a hole created by removing material (borrowing it!) for use elsewhere. It can also be a drainage ditch by the road. Survey-takers, though, got creative and called it a “donation box.”

Feeling Put Out in Missouri? Not That Way!

“Put out” usually has a spicy meaning, but in Missouri, it describes someone who’s angry or peeved.

Blucifer: Not Your Average Blue Devil

Never heard of Blucifer? You’re not alone. Survey-takers guessed it was another term for a blue devil. But Blucifer is the actual nickname for the imposing 32-foot-tall blue fiberglass horse statue looming over Denver International Airport. Talk about a local legend!