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How to Make Friends In Natural British English

When you think about your closest friends, can you remember how you met them? Was it at school? At university? Were they your neighbours? Or friends of friends? No matter when you met these special people, no doubt they are treasures who make your life sparkle. Do you have a special way to describe them? In British English, we have a saying which is ‘a friend in need is a friend indeed.’ This idiom means a friend who helps you when you really need help is a true friend. Does this ring true to you? One of life’s mysteries may be how to make these special friends. Did you know that in British English there are several phrases you can use to bond with, help out and support a new friend? Using natural British English phrases can really help to take your friendship to the next level.

Talking about shared interests

  • What do you think of the new Arsenal manager? = What’s your opinion about (neutral)
  • I saw that film you were talking about the other day. It was… = the film you mentioned when we were chatting recently (neutral)
  • Hey, have you seen (programme name) yet? = Did you watch (programme name) like I suggested? (neutral)
  • What do you reckon about the new Disney Movie?  = Think about (neutral)

Inviting to join in an event

  • I’m having coffee with X on Sat. Do you fancy joining us? = Would you like to join us? (informal)
  • Would you be up for going to the beach/cinema at the weekend? = phrasal verb, interested in (informal)
  • A few of us are heading to the pub later if you fancy it?  = going to… if you feel like coming (informal)

Girls greeting girls

  • Hey! Oh, I love your (shoes/earrings/etc) they are so cute. = they are stylish and pretty (neutral)
  • Hiya! Wow! Love the (hair/coat/dress etc), it’s so you! = I admire your (hair/coat/dress etc), it really suits you. (informal)
  • (Name)! It’s been far too long! Tell me everything! = update me on your life (informal)
  • Hey! So, what have I missed? = tell me the gossip (neutral)
  • Spill the tea! = tell me the gossip (slang, very informal)

Offering to help

  • Do you need a hand with that? = assistance/help (informal)
  • I can give you a hand with carrying that.  = help you with doing that (neutral)
  • If you need anything, just give me a bell. = call me (informal)
  • If you need anything, just give me a shout. = let me know (informal, friendly)

Giving moral support

  • I’ve got your back = I will be here for you whatever happens (informal)
  • Fingers crossed! = Good luck! (neutral)
  • Break a leg! = Good luck! (humorous, commonly used for performances) (informal)
  • You’re going to smash it! = You will be amazing (informal)
  • You’ve got this in the bag. = I’m sure of a positive outcome (informal)

Do you use any of these phrases already? Which ones appeal to you? Let us know in the comments below! We love to hear what you think about speaking natural British English here at PS English!

Take care,

Emma

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16th October 2024

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