Helpful Hints To A “Coal Regioner” Traveler

There are many ways for other people outside of the Coal Region to convey themselves. We most likely will understand what they are talking about, but they may not understand US.

This is because we speak with what is known as “colloquialisms,” which are familiar ways of speaking or writing that may not be understood by people outside of our community.

I will list below many of our words and phrases which may confuse “outsiders”, or perhaps just leave them dumb-founded.

1.” Ho-Butt!” – there are many conflicting arguments as to if this is the correct phrase (could be “ho-bud,”), but all essentially mean the same — hey buddy, what’s up? (William S. has done in depth articles on this local enigma, check the archive.)

2.”How ’bout it, huh?” – This is a general question, usually asked rhetorically after stating the obvious. I notice that neither I, nor my mother, revert to this phrase until I come home from out-of-state to visit, then it’s no holds barred! Ain’t no thang!!!!

3. “For Serious?” – I’ve always assumed that this was a common-place phrase used to compactly express, “Oh my God, are you f@#king serious?” Apparently, when you go elsewhere in the country and utter this shortened version of that question, the response is, “Oh my God, are you a f@#king moron? What the f@#k are you trying to ask?”

4. “One up, one down.” – This is (in my opinion) the only way hot dogs and hamburgers should ever be ordered at Coney Island Lunch in Shamokin. I do not know if this place is a historical land mark but it very well should be!

5. “Drink some beers” – Although the proper way to pluralize the word “beer” is actually “beer,” we follow the beat of our own drum. It’s just easier that way.

6. “Outten your cigarette“ – Apparently, “outten” is not a word. Shocking! When I first moved away from Shamokin I was teased relentlessly about saying, “you didn’t outten your cigarette and the smoke is everywhere!”  This is just an example. To us Coal Regioners, “outten” essentially means to make sure that your cigarette, etc.,  has completely stopped burning.

7. “Can I Butt F#@K You?” – When someone asks you this and you notice that they have an unlit cigarette and you have a lit one, it is most likely okay to say yes (they are usually asking if they can use your cigarette butt to light their smoke.) If you are unsure of the connotation of the question, it is best just to answer a straight “no” and continue on with your life.

Stay Tuned for more embarrassing things we say yet don’t realize how embarrassing they may actually be. And guess what? We don’t give a “rat’s ass” (another beloved local phrase) WHAT outsiders think!!!

Tell us what you think! Please leave a comment below. We LOVE comments!