Cheers: The British 'Aloha'

The British continue to baffle me with their words and, despite a host of willing translators, there are some words I still can't quite get the hang of.

Today's word: Cheers.


While one kindly Brit (Charlie) ensured me that it really only had one meaning, the number of times and the number of contexts in which I hear it ensures me that Charlie is barmy :) Case(s) in point:

"Cheers" (in a bar setting): This could be the typical clinking of glasses and celebration in surviving another 2 hour lecture with Nicolay and Olga Bortagoveta (or however you say their very Russian surname) as they ensure us that the TRIZ design methodology isn't just a crock.

"Cheers" (as you're leaving): I believe it counts as a legitimate 'Goodbye'. Often said, 'Cheers, mate!', followed by a round of 'Cheers!' from those left in the room.

"Cheers" (while holding the door for someone): It also counts as 'Thank you'. Sometimes the two even go hand in hand, as in, "Cheers, thanks!" But they don't ALWAYS go together. Often it's just 'Cheers.' This particularly makes me feel very American, as I always say 'Thank you' ever so politely.
(Side note: 'You're welcome' is rarely used. Except by me. I embrace the funny looks.)


"Cheers" (when your mate walks in): Quick note: 'mate' does not mean your baby-making partner. It means your friend, pal, amigo, forced lab partner, etc. Anyway, I was told that no one actually uses it as a 'Hello', but if that is true, there are a lot of Brits who either are thanking their friends for walking in the room or hoping a subtle 'Cheers' will let them know they'd prefer they were leaving.


In short, people are 'Cheers'ing all over the place, and I just can't pick it up. I sound far too American for that. I already get a bit of a chuckle from those around me when I talk about pounds as 'quid', but as one who thinks of pounds as units of weight, I prefer their slang version of money.

Eventually I'll understand what's being said in this foreign country. However, once that happens I'll have to start a new blog back in America about how I don't fit in within the States anymore...such is life.