-
-
Author: Francis Farragher
~ 2 minutes read
Country Living with Francis Farragher
One of the possibly more dubious benefits of a move to the ‘metropolis’ of Tuam back around 1970 was the introduction to what seemed at the time to be a new language. For most of us who descended into the town for our initiation ceremonies to second-level education, it didn’t take too long for us to realise that when we were referred to as ‘buffs’ or ‘buffers’, it wasn’t exactly a complimentary term.
Maybe there wasn’t a lot of malice in the description – it just meant that we originated from outside the town boundary and we were ‘country lads’, but as the weeks passed a whole new vocabulary came our way.
Slang of course is not unique to Tuam and is found in practically all countries and corners of the world where there are plays on language on words.
One of my favourite local ones is from an ex-barman who on hearing some gem of wisdom that you had passed on would deliver this very doubled edged compliment: “God you’re nearly as smart as a person.”
A few years back, I remember glancing through a book written by a David Crystal and one that was very aptly titled to – “BY HOOK OR BY CROOK” – in which he traced back the origins of famous phrases or slang expressions that are now an everyday part of the English language.
That phrase dates back to the 12th century when Norman invader Strongbow (there always seemed to be somebody attacking us!) sailed into Waterford Harbour and viewed the Church of Crook on one side and the Tower of Crook on the other. Determined to ‘take’ the harbour he said that this aim would be achieved ‘by hook or . . .’ yes you’ve guessed it.
For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune:
Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App
Download the Connacht Tribune Digital Edition App to access to Galway’s best-selling newspaper. Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.
Or purchase the Digital Edition for PC, Mac or Laptop from Pagesuite HERE.
Get the Connacht Tribune Live app
The Connacht Tribune Live app is the home of everything that is happening in Galway City and county. It’s completely FREE and features all the latest news, sport and information on what’s on in your area. Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.
More like this:
Galway Chamber projects shortlistened in 2024 National Awards
Projects led by Galway Chamber have made the shortlist for the 2024 Chamber Awards. ‘Galway...
Galway software company becomes first to achieve European Cycle Friendly Employer certificate
A Galway software company has become the first to achieve European Cycle Friendly Employer certif...
Mairead Farrell claims Government on track to miss affordable housing targets in Galway City and County
Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has revealed that the Government is on track to miss its affordabl...
City Councillor describes water treatment plant situation in Galway as ‘farcical’
City Councillor, Noel Larkin, has described the lack of capacity at water treatment plants in Gal...
Static speed safety cameras to be installed on N59 between Moycullen and the city
A static speed safety camera is to be installed on the N59 between Moycullen and the city. ItR...
Delays to city flood relief scheme could push completion date out to 2030
Delays to the city flood relief scheme could push the completion date out to 2030, according to i...
An Bord Pleanála upholds permission for 33 meter high mobile mast in Cregmore
An Bord Pleanála has upheld permission for the construction of a 33 metres high mobile mast in Cr...
East Galway projects to benefit from EU Just Transition Fund
New funding opportunities for community and tourism led community groups and SMEs across Ballinas...
Solidarity party select election candidate for Galway City East
The Solidarity party has selected a candidate to run in the local elections for Galway City East....