13 things you should never say to a person from Scotland

Yes, banter with someone from Scotland. Learn their vibrant Scottish slang and phrases. However, there are some things you don't want to say to avoid getting on their bad side. Follow our wise advice, and you'll avoid being told to 'haud yer wheesht' (shut up), 'go tae' (go away), or'skedaddle aff' (leave them alone). You should only eat haggis, not your words.

1. "So, Scotland is a part of England, right?"

Scots are extremely proud of their country, heritage, and identity. While Scotland is a part of the United Kingdom, you should avoid confusing the two.

2. "Och aye the noo!"

This is one of those Scottish expressions that appears in many parodies mocking the Scots' speech and accent. Its direct English translation is "Oh yes, just now". While some Scots may chuckle with you, others find it disrespectful.

For the record, it is not something you will typically hear locals say. Some excellent Scottish idioms you might hear on your travels, however, include 'Whit's fur ye'll no go past ye' (what will be, will be) and (our personal favorite) 'Yer aff yer heid!' - ideally not in reaction to something you've just said.

3. No, thank you. I am not a fan of Irn Bru.

Scottish residents are just as proud of this orange, carbonated soft drink (and'miracle' hangover treatment) as they are of their country as a whole. So, if you're offered a sip of "Scotland's other national drink," which comes in second place to whisky, accept it and drink it with a smile. The Scots think it's refreshingly delightful, and you should agree.

4. "I don't believe in Nessie"

People from Scotland like convincing visitors that the Loch Ness Monster dwells somewhere within the shimmering depths of Loch Ness.

They are undoubtedly persuasive, since thousands of tourists search for 'Nessie' each year and return. According to Gary Campbell, the chartered accountant in charge of maintaining the official register of Nessie sightings, the elusive creature contributes an estimated £41 million to the Scottish economy each year.

5. "I'm Scottish, too. My great-great-grandmother was Scottish."

According to the locals, to be considered Scottish, you must have lived in Scotland for a long time or have been born and raised there.

6. "My girlfriend's uncle lives in Glasgow, too! "Do you know Graham?"

Let's face it, the chances are minimal. Local favorites, as in any other country, will always exist. In Scotland, Olivia and Jack are the most popular baby names. The top three surnames in Scotland are Smith, Brown, and Wilson.

According to the General Register Office of Scotland, there is no 'Mc-Anything' in the list until number 9. Macdonald takes the coveted top ten slot.

7. "Where can I get a deep-fried Mars bar?"

The Scots have most likely had this decadent dish at least once, although it is not as popular in Scotland as visitors may believe. And it is certainly not a mainstay in their meals.

8. "What do you wear under your kilt?"

Person from Scotland at Leddard Farm - Scottish phrases.

You might as well ask a Scottish individual what sort of underpants they are (or are not) wearing.

9. "Braveheart is my favourite movie of all time!"

The Scots are not totally satisfied with the rollicking Hollywood picture, Braveheart. According to historians, the film was a greatly fictionalised romp rather than a historically accurate depiction of the country's past and inhabitants. So, it's probably best not to bring it up.

10. "Haggis is disgusting!"

Oh no, you didn't! Scotland's national food is a savory pudding made with sheep's pluck (liver, heart, and lungs). These protein-rich components are then combined with oats and seasoned with a variety of powerful spices, which can be rather tasty.

11. "Does it rain all the time in Scotland?"

Scotland receives its fair share of precipitation. Unsurprisingly, most Scots are extremely offended when others criticize their country's weather. They believe the weather is far worse in other parts of the UK.

The untranslatable word 'dreich' is one of the most common terms used to describe grey Scottish weather. This broad adjective for anything tedious, damp, or wet expresses a strong disdain for anything, not just the weather.

12. "How do you feel about Scottish independence?"

This statement is a great approach to start a long talk and possibly ruffle some feathers. Unless this is your goal, it is best not to bring up the topic of Scottish independence.

13. "Are Scots as tight-fisted as they say?"

Scottish people have established a reputation for being frugal and miserly. Most will quickly point out that this stereotype could not be further from the truth. Instead of being thrifty, most Scots will claim to be good money managers. So, who will pay for the drinks?