The 1980s gave us more than just big hair and neon fashion.
Many catchphrases from British telly and pop culture have stood the test of time. Here are some that you’ll likely remember. In fact, you probably still use many of these today! (It’s okay, I don’t judge!)
1. “Nice one, Brucey!”
This classic phrase from “Play Your Cards Right” by Bruce Forsyth was the ultimate compliment. Even today, it’s used to praise someone for a good job, usually with a smile. Brucey’s charismatic delivery made this catchphrase iconic, and it’s now used as a cheeky way to say, “Well done!”
2. “I’ve started, so I’ll finish.”
Quizmaster Magnus Magnusson from “Mastermind” made this phrase legendary. Now, it’s used in everyday situations to show determination, especially when someone is halfway through something tough but refuses to give up. It’s often said with a knowing smile, like when you’re committed to finishing a massive plate of food!
3. “Cushty!”
Del Boy from “Only Fools and Horses” made “Cushty” (meaning great or excellent) part of the British lexicon. Whether you’ve just heard good news or your team has won the match, this word still brings a grin, evoking images of Del Boy’s cockney charm.
4. “Loadsamoney!”
Harry Enfield’s character, with his wads of cash, turned this catchphrase into a symbol of ’80s excess. It was a parody of Thatcher-era culture but became a fun, ironic way to joke about getting paid or having a bit of extra cash in your pocket—though maybe not quite “loadsamoney”!
5. “The name’s Bond, James Bond.”
This suave introduction became a staple in British pop culture, especially with Roger Moore’s Bond films in the ’80s. It’s still hilariously mimicked today when people introduce themselves, adding a touch of 007 flair to everyday life, even if you’re just ordering a pint.
6. “Don’t panic!”
Corporal Jones from “Dad’s Army” gave us this reassuring, yet comically frantic, phrase. Now, it’s used in moments when everything’s going a bit wrong, but there’s still a glimmer of hope that things will be okay. It’s always said with a wink, letting everyone know it’s not quite time to lose our heads—yet.
7. “Absolutely fabulous, darling!”
Source: Unsplash Though the show “Absolutely Fabulous” was technically a ’90s phenomenon, this over-the-top phrase, popular in the ’80s fashion and comedy scenes, has stuck around. It’s used both sincerely and sarcastically to express excitement, glamour, or just a fabulous moment, usually in your poshest accent.
8. “You plonker!”
Another gem from Del Boy in “Only Fools and Horses”, calling someone a “plonker” is a good-natured way of saying they’ve been a bit of an idiot. This insult isn’t meant to hurt feelings—just to highlight a daft moment in the most British way possible.
9. “I’ll be back.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic line from “The Terminator” made its way into British slang, and it’s still used whenever someone’s stepping out for a bit. Said with a cheeky smile and in your best Arnie accent, it turns even the most mundane exits into cinematic moments.
10. “Boom boom!”
Basil Brush’s cheeky punchline after delivering a joke is still used today, often in a self-deprecating way, especially after a cheesy or groan-worthy quip. It’s a fun, light-hearted way to acknowledge you’ve just made a dad joke—intentionally or not.
11. “Suits you, sir!”
Source: Unsplash “The Fast Show” made this line famous, and now it’s used anytime someone’s trying to flatter someone else, often in a cheeky or ironic way. Whether commenting on someone’s outfit or their decision-making, it’s always delivered with a playful wink.
12. “Yeah, but no, but yeah, but…”
This classic from “Little Britain” mocks the indecisiveness of teenage chat, but it’s rooted in the valley-girl lingo of the ’80s. It’s now used to parody indecision or when someone can’t quite make up their mind—usually in a mocking, exaggerated tone.
13. “Knowing me, knowing you.”
Alan Partridge’s infamous line is used when someone’s making a wry reference to shared knowledge or experience. You’ll often hear it with a knowing “Aha!” for extra comedic effect, turning a simple moment of recognition into a shared joke. Yes, the character was from the ’90s, but he was based on someone from the ’80s, so this counts!
14. “You ain’t seen nothing yet!”
Though originally from an American song, this phrase became a cheeky way for Brits in the ’80s to hint that something even better—or crazier—was on its way. Whether you’re building excitement for an event or just boasting a bit, it’s a fun way to say the best is yet to come.
15. “I don’t believe it!”
Victor Meldrew’s catchphrase from “One Foot in the Grave” became the go-to line for expressing disbelief or exasperation at life’s little frustrations. Even now, it’s shouted in mock outrage when something goes wrong—often with a healthy dose of British sarcasm.
