When it comes to old money, it’s all about subtlety and understatement.
These are people who’ve grown up with endless cash and resources, but they don’t feel the need to shout about it. In fact, the way they speak reflects a sense of tradition, ease, and quiet confidence. Here are 15 phrases that people from old money families often use and what they really mean. Sure, they’re a bit eye roll-worthy at times, but they can’t help the circumstances they were born into any more than the rest of us can!
1. “It’s simply not done.”
This isn’t just an example of manners—it’s a polite but firm way of saying, “That’s not acceptable.” From refusing to make a scene or avoiding something that feels overly flashy, this phrase is their go-to for maintaining unspoken rules. It’s not open to debate, either. For them, this is about upholding tradition and keeping things ‘proper’ in a way only they seem to understand.
2. “We’ve always done it this way.”
Suggest something new or modern, and you’ll likely hear this. It’s their way of saying tradition takes priority, and they’re not interested in shaking things up. Whether it’s a family recipe, a centuries-old annual event, or even their approach to how they live, this reassures them that life remains steady, rooted, and familiar—no sudden changes required.
3. “That’s not quite my taste.”
Rather than outright criticising something, they’ll use this polite phrase to set a boundary. Whether it’s about fashion, food, or lifestyle choices, it’s their way of saying, “That’s not for me,” without offending anyone. It also subtly hints at their preference for timeless, understated elegance over anything that feels trendy or over-the-top.
4. “We’re quite comfortable.”
Translation: They’re very wealthy, but they’ll never admit it outright. This phrase is all about modesty while quietly reassuring you they’re financially secure. It’s their way of keeping things low-key, even when their “comfortable” lifestyle includes sprawling estates and luxury cars.
5. “It’s a family piece.”
They’ll never describe something as “expensive” or “valuable.” Instead, an antique bracelet or vintage watch is always “a family piece.” They’re not just downplaying worth—they’re emphasising history and sentiment over price tags. It’s a subtle way of showing that legacy matters more than money.
6. “We summer in…”
They don’t “go on holiday.” They “summer in” places like the south of France or their second home in Cornwall. It’s not about the destination—it’s about the tradition of returning to the same place every year. It’s casual, understated, and quietly signals a lifestyle rooted in generational wealth.
7. “They’re quite good friends of ours.”
When dropping names isn’t their style, this is their alternative. Instead of announcing a famous or influential connection, they’ll mention their “good friends” with ease, leaving you to figure out that said friends are likely CEOs, aristocrats, or public figures. It’s a way of keeping their relationships personal, not performative.
8. “We’re hosting a small gathering.”
What you imagine: a casual get-together with a few friends. What they mean: a catered event with 50 people at their estate. Downplaying the grandeur of an event is a hallmark of old money culture—it’s all about creating the illusion of intimacy, even when the guest list is anything but small.
9. “One does what one can.”
They’ll never brag about their charity work or generosity. Instead, they’ll downplay their efforts with this phrase, which suggests helping other people is simply part of their duty, not something that needs applause. It’s a humble acknowledgment of their actions, rooted in their belief that giving back is a quiet responsibility.
10. “It’s a charming little place.”
This could mean anything from a quaint cottage to a sprawling countryside estate. By calling it “charming” and “little,” they steer attention away from its grandeur and focus on its character instead. It’s all part of their effort to stay understated, even when describing something most people would consider extravagant.
11. “We’ve known them forever.”
This phrase typically refers to family friends, business associates, or even neighbours whose connections span generations. It’s not about bragging—it’s about showing that their relationships are built on trust, longevity, and shared history. It subtly signals their value for stability and deeply rooted networks.
12. “He comes from a good family.”
This isn’t just about wealth—it’s about upbringing, values, and compatibility with their world. When they say this, they’re making their approval clear, often based on shared traditions, connections, and respectability. It’s their way of acknowledging someone’s place in their tightly-knit social circles.
13. “It’s an acquired taste.”
This is how they politely describe something niche or exclusive that might not appeal to everyone—think caviar, classical music, or a quiet retreat in the countryside. It’s their way of suggesting you might not get it now, but with time (and perhaps a certain lifestyle), you will.
14. “It’s best to keep it discreet.”
Privacy is everything in their world. Whether it’s about money, family dramas, or personal achievements, they prefer to keep things behind closed doors. This phrase is a reminder that they value subtlety and quiet strength over public displays or unnecessary attention.
15. “We’ll have to see what can be arranged.”
This isn’t a yes, but it’s not quite a no, either. It’s their way of politely leaving things open-ended without committing to anything. It gives them time to consider their options while still sounding accommodating. It’s as much about maintaining flexibility as it is about keeping control.
