Unique Funny Phrases (350+ English, Italian, Spanish for 2023)

Did you know there's some really funny phrases in English? Some English phrases are just plain funny. And when you start using them yourself, it's hard to stop! We've collected some of the most bizarre and hilarious ones here so that you can amaze your friends (and confuse your enemies) with your impeccable English skills. Enjoy!

Jump right in!

funny phrases

Top funny phrases (and their meaning)

Here are the very best funny phrases.

That'll be the day! - I will never believe that!

The phrase is often used in response to a statement or promise that seems too good to be true. For example, if someone told you they could get you a job with high pay and flexible hours, you might say, "That'll be the day!" to express your skepticism.

funny phrases

Mind your P's and Q's - watch your manners

The phrase "mind your P's and Q's" warns you to be careful and watch your manners. More specifically, it instructs one to mind one's pronunciation (P) and politeness (Q).

I could eat a horse! - I'm very hungry

This phrase is often used to describe someone's extreme hunger. It means that they are so hungry that they would be able to eat a whole horse!

funny phrases

That hits the spot! - That was just what I needed/wanted

"That hits the spot!" is a phrase typically used to convey satisfaction or pleasure in response to something that has just been consumed or experienced. In other words, it's a way of saying "that was good" or "I liked that."

It's raining cats and dogs - it's raining very hard

It's raining cats and dogs because the water comes down so fast when it rains really hard.

I'm not out of order, am I? - Am I behaving improperly?

You're asking this question because you're not sure if what you did was wrong. In other words, you want to know if you broke the rules. The key idea here is that there are rules for how people should behave in certain situations, and when someone breaks these rules, we say they were "out of order".

funny phrases

It's not the end of the world! - It's not a disaster!

This phrase is often used to try and reassure someone who is upset about something. It means that even though things might seem bad at the moment, it's not as bad as they could be.

You're telling me! - I can't believe it!/I know!/Wow, that's incredible!

When someone says "You're telling me!" they indicate that they are surprised or skeptical about what has just been said. The phrase is often used to show disbelief in something that has been said. For example, if someone told you that they had won the lottery, you might say "You're telling me!" to indicate your surprise.

funny phrases

Don't worry your pretty little head about it! - Do not concern yourself with this matter!

It is often used to tell someone not to worry about something they can't do anything about. It's usually said when the person is trying to fix a problem that's not their responsibility or asking too many questions.

The phrase is often used to shut someone up, but sometimes it can be helpful in situations where the person doesn't need to stress out about something they can't control. In most cases, it's better to let go and let other people handle the situation.

Cold Turkey

This can be used to refer to several different things, the most common of which is quitting something abruptly without any help or support. For example, someone might say they're going to cold turkey their caffeine addiction, or they might decide to go cold turkey on their diet and start eating unhealthy foods again.

The phrase can also be used less commonly to describe the sudden withdrawal from substances.

Eager beaver

The phrase "eager beaver" describes someone who is overzealous and excited. This person may be so eager to please that they end up doing more harm than good. They may also be overeager in their attempts to get things done, leading to sloppy work.

Monkey Business

Well, this phrase is self-explanatory because you already know that monkey's are associated with mischievousness and shenanigans. 

The phrase "monkey business" is often used to describe mischief, shenanigans, or tomfoolery. It's thought to have originated from the antics of monkeys known for being playful and naughty. So if someone engages in monkey business, they're up to no good!

Read more for Monkey Jokes!

Sacred Cow

Sacred cows are things that we hold dear, but that may not be all that sensible. The phrase often refers to things we don't want to question or change, even though they might not be perfect. For example, in India, many cows wander around the streets. 

People there consider them sacred and think of them as a symbol of prosperity. It's sometimes inconvenient or messy to have cows walking around. However, people are reluctant to do anything about it because they're so important to the culture and religion.

Call Dibs

The phrase "call dibs" is used to claim an item or opportunity for oneself. It's basically a way of saying, "I want that." or "I'm first in line." Dibs can also be called on things that haven't been specifically identified, like a parking spot or seat on the bus.

In some cases, people will offer something up for grabs and then someone else can call dibs to say they want it. This usually happens when there's more than one person trying to get something. For example, if two people are vying for the last piece of cake, the first person might say, "I call dibs." This is to let the other person know that they're not gonna give it to them.

Funny catchphrases (and their meaning)

A catchphrase is a word or phrase that becomes popular and is often repeated, sometimes to be humorous. Here are five popular catchphrases and their meanings:

Bless your heart

This phrase is used in the southern United States to say, "I'm sorry," or "that's too bad." Bless your heart is a Southern expression used to show sympathy for someone. It is often used when the person has done something wrong or is not doing well. The phrase can mean "I'm sorry for your troubles" or "I hope you get better soon."

That's what she said

This is a phrase used to indicate that something sexual was just said. The phrase is most commonly used to tease someone else in a conversation or make sexual innuendo.

No offense, but…

This phrase is often used to preface a statement that the speaker knows will offend the person they are speaking to.

That'll do, pig 

"That'll do, pig" is a British English phrase typically used to express satisfaction or to mean "that will be enough." For example, the phrase is often used when someone has finished their meal.

Don't let the bed bugs bite

Don't let the bed bugs bite is often used to tell someone not to let any harm come to them. The phrase is often used when someone is leaving to wish them safety. The phrase can also be used as a warning, telling someone that there are bed bugs in the area and they should take precautions.

Wrap it up; we're going home

It means I'm done eating/drinking or We're done here, Let's go back to our place/hotel/etc. This phrase is often used to signify the end of a meeting or conversation. It means that it's time to wrap things up and go home. This phrase can also be used as a way to give someone a hint that it's time for them to leave.

For example:

If someone is talking too long or taking up too much of your time. You might say "wrap it up" to let them know you want them to finish up and leave.

I'll sleep on it

When someone says, "I'll sleep on it," they usually mean they need time to think about the situation. It's a way of saying they need time to process the information and come up with a solution. It means this isn't a definitive decision, but I need time to think about it before deciding what to do.

Sometimes people also use this phrase when they're unsure if they want to do something or feel overwhelmed by a decision. They might say "I'll sleep on it" as a way of putting off deciding until they have more time to think about it.

Funny Christmas phrases (and their meaning)

Here are some of the most popular Christmas phrases and their meanings

  1. Merry Christmas: This phrase is used to wish someone a happy and prosperous holiday season.

  2. Happy holidays: This phrase is used to wish someone a happy and enjoyable holiday season.

  3. Season's greetings: This phrase is used to wish someone a happy and enjoyable holiday season.

  4. Deck the Halls: This phrase means to decorate the house for Christmas. 

  5. Jingle Bells: This phrase describes the sound of sleigh bells. 

  6. Santa Claus is Coming to Town: This phrase means Santa will soon arrive with presents for all the good children. 

  7. Winter Wonderland: This phrase describes the beauty of wintertime. 

  8. The North Pole: This phrase describe the location of Santa's workshop. 

  9. Ho, ho, ho!: This phrase is Santa's traditional way of laughing. 

Funny Irish phrases (and their meaning)

  1. You have to put the p in the pints: It means you have to put in the effort if you want to get drunk. 

  2. Dirty protest: When someone does not want to do something, they say it's a dirty protest.

  3. He's a man of his word: He always keeps his promises.

  4. There's more than one way to skin a cat: Many ways to do something.

  5. She's as light as a feather: She is very lightweight.

  6. Put on the green jersey: Support your team!

Explore funny Leprechaun names here!

Funny Italian phrases (and their meaning)

  1. Va fa Napoli! - This famous Italian phrase means "go to Naples" but is used to tell someone to go away or screw off.

  2. Cosa vuole? - This means "What do you want?" and is often used as a way of saying, "What the hell are you looking at?" or "Who do you think you are?"

  3. Scusi, per favore -This translates to "excuse me, please" and is one of the most basic phrases in Italian. It's polite to say this whenever you need someone's attention or if you're asking for something.

  4. Ti amo -This means "I love you" in Italian. 

  5. Craic - Fun, enjoyment, particularly good news or a lively atmosphere.

  6. Grand - Used to describe something very good.

  7. Pint - A measure of beer - although in some places a 'pony' (smaller amount) or 'half' (half pint) may be ordered.

  8. Dodgy - Suspicious, risky or dangerous

  9. Banjaxed - Broken beyond repair

  10. Growler - A jug used to take beer home for fun, enjoyment, good times

  11. What's the craic? - How are you? What's going on?

  12. Arse - Backside, bottom

  13. Lad/lass - Boy/girl

  14. Yer man/one - That guy over there / I have no idea who you.

  15. Howaya: How are you? How's the form?: How are you doing?

  16. Are ye grand?- Are you alright?

  17. What age are ye? - How old are you?

  18. I will in me hole! - I'm going home! 

  19. That's class! - That's great!

  20. Where ya to? - Where are you going? 

  21. How's She Cuttin'? - How are you? How's the form?

Random funny phrases (and their meaning)

  1. The elephant in the room: An obvious problem or controversial issue that no one wants to talk about.

  2. Pulling someone's leg: To tease or trick.

  3. Someone let the cat out of the bag: to reveal a secret accidentally.

  4. Beat around the bush: To avoid talking about something directly.

  5. Bite the bullet: To do something difficult or unpleasant that you have been putting off.

  6. Get someone's goat: To annoy someone.

Southern funny phrases (and their meaning)

Here are ten funny Southern phrases and their meanings:

  1. Well I'll be a monkey's uncle: This phrase shows surprise or disbelief at what has been said. 

  2. Lawd have mercy: This phrase shows shock, amazement, or anger and can be used as an exclamation of disbelief.

  3. I'll holler at you later. - This means "I'll talk to you later."

  4. You couldn't pour water out of a boot with instructions on the heel." If someone is trying to do something impossible, you can say this.

  5. Howdy! - This is a greeting used in the South that means "Hello!" or "How are you?"

  6. It doesn't amount to a hill of beans: It's not important.

  7. Over Yonder: I'm leaving; I'm going far away.

  8. I Reckon: I think, or I guess.

  9. What in the Sam Hill?: What in the world?

  10. Don't Get Your Knickers in a Twist: Don't get upset.

  11. She's as Pretty as a Peach: She's very pretty.

Funny short phrases (and their meaning)

Funny short phrases and what they mean.

Roger that

This is a term used in radio communications to indicate that the speaker has heard and understood the message. It's likely derived from the phrase "received and acknowledged," which was used in Morse code.

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

This proverb suggests that it is better to have something you already have than to go after something that might be better but is also risky. 

Bite the bullet

This phrase comes from battlefields where surgeons would sometimes have to amputate a limb without any anesthetic. The soldier had to bite down on a bullet to keep from screaming in pain. 

Easy does it

This expression is usually used when someone is trying to do something difficult or when someone else is trying to help them. It means to go slowly and be careful. 

Feeling under the weather

This phrase is used to describe when someone is feeling sick. It usually means that the person has a cold or the flu. 

Keep your chin up

This phrase is used to tell someone who is feeling down or discouraged to stay positive and have hope.

Let sleeping dogs lie

This proverb means that it's usually best not to bring up old problems or disagreements that have been resolved. 

On the ball

When someone is on the ball, they are alert and paying attention. 

Once in a blue moon

This phrase is used to describe something that happens very rarely. 

Wet your whistle

If you wet your whistle, you have a drink of water or alcohol to quench your thirst. 

You can't judge a book by its cover

This phrase means that you can't judge something (or someone) just by their appearance. 

Funny hangman phrases (for the game)

Funny hangman phrases to use.

Don't have a cow, man!

This phrase is typically used to calm someone down who is angry or upset. The phrase is a shortened version of the sentence "Don't have a cow, it's just a little thing."

The full sentence is often used when someone experiences a minor inconvenience. For example, if someone cuts in line and the person they cut in front of gets angry, you could say "Don't have a cow, man! It's just a little thing."

The phrase is meant to lighten the mood and show that the person who caused the inconvenience doesn't understand what all the fuss is about. It also communicates that the speaker doesn't think the situation is worth getting worked up over.

Take a chill pill!

It is an idiomatic expression used to tell someone to calm down. It is usually used to tell someone that their reaction or anger is not worth getting upset about or that it is not worth arguing over.

The phrase likely comes from the idea of taking a medication to calm someone down, such as a sedative or antidepressant. Another possibility is that the phrase comes from the idea of cooling off, as in cooling down after an argument or heated exchange.

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush!

This phrase means it is better to have something certain than to gamble on getting something better. For example, if you have a bird in your hand, you are guaranteed to have a bird. However, if you are in a field and see two birds, there is no guarantee that you will catch both birds.

So, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush because it is better to have something certain than to gamble on getting something better.

Don't worry, be happy!

It is a phrase often used to cheer someone up. It is usually said in an upbeat tone. The phrase means that you should not worry about things out of your control and instead focus on being happy. Being happy is the best way to forget about your troubles and enjoy life.

It's all good!

Typically means that everything is going well or that everything is okay. It can also be used as a way of showing approval or agreement. For example, if someone tells a story and thinks it's funny, you might say, "It's all good!" to show your approval.

Piece of cake!

It is an expression used to describe something easy to do. The phrase is often used to describe tasks or activities that are not difficult and can be completed very quickly. For example, someone might say, "I scored the goal; it was a piece of cake!" to mean that the test was not difficult and that they completed it quickly.

Easy as pie!

It is an expression used to convey that something is very easy to do. The phrase is often used when describing tasks that are considered mundane or trivial. For example, making a pie from scratch can be challenging for some people. But for others, it may be as easy as pie. This means that the process is straightforward for them. So, when someone says, "it's easy as pie!" They indicate that the task is not difficult.

No gain without pain

The "no gain without pain" hangman phrase means that to achieve something, you must be willing to work hard and make sacrifices. The phrase is often used when referring to fitness or weight loss. You must be willing to put in the time and effort required to see results.

Too many cooks spoil the broth

This old proverb means that too many people working on a project can lead to disaster. The phrase is often used when referring to groups working together, such as in a team or committee. There can be too many decision-makers or people trying to do their own thing instead of working together, which can lead to chaos and problems.

It's not over till it's over

It means that even if things look bad, don't give up because the game isn't over until the final out is made. This phrase can be applied to many areas of life, such as relationships, work, or even just trying to stick to a diet or fitness routine. In other words, don't give up until the very end. As long as you keep fighting, there's always a chance for success.

Funny sayings (and their meanings)

Generally funny sayings.

She's as crazy as a loon! 

This phrase means that she is crazy and wild, like a loon. A loon is a type of bird known for being very playful and silly. So if someone is "as crazy as a loon," they are just as playful and silly as the bird.

It cost an arm and a leg!

The phrase "It costs an arm and a leg!" describes something extremely expensive. For example, if you were to say, "That new car costs an arm and a leg!" you would say that the car is very expensive.

I don't have a clue 

I don't have a clue is an expression used to admit that one does not know something or is unsure what to say. It can be used as a response when someone asks for your opinion on something. Or when you are asked to do something, and you don't know how to go about it.

It can also be used to deflect attention away from yourself and onto someone else. For example, if someone asks you a question and you don't know the answer, you might say, "I don't have a clue." This gives you time to come up with an answer while also making the other person feel like they are in control of the situation.

Dead ringer

A dead ringer is someone or something that is an exact copy, match, or replica. The phrase is often used to describe someone who looks very similar to another person or something that is a replica of another thing. For example, if you saw someone on the street who looked exactly like your best friend, you might say they were a "dead ringer" for your friend.

I'll show myself out.

When someone says, "I'll show myself out," they indicate that they do not need assistance in leaving the premises. It is polite to say, "I'm leaving now," or "I don't need any help."

Funny pirate phrases (and their meanings)

Funny pirate phrases and their meanings.

Weigh anchor 

Weigh anchor is a funny pirate phrase that means to set sail. It's just something pirates say to make themselves sound cool.

Shiver me timbers 

"Shiver me timbers" is a pirate phrase that means "shake me up." It's used to express surprise or fear. For example, you might say, "shiver me timbers, that was a close one," to express your relief after narrowly avoiding an accident.

Pieces of eight - 

The phrase "pieces of eight" comes from the old Spanish gold coin, the eight-real piece or "piece of eight." This was a large, thick coin with a nominal value of 8 reals (the equivalent of two English shillings). It has passed into common usage as an exclamation or interjection to express surprise, astonishment, joy, etc. The phrase is still in use today.

Walk the plank 

Walk the plank is a popular pirate phrase that means to be executed by being forced to walk off a board placed over the side of a ship and into the water below. This punishment was usually reserved for pirates who had committed serious crimes, such as mutiny.

Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum 

Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum is an often used pirate phrase that means, "A lot of drinking will be done." It is also sometimes used to mean, "We're going to have a good time."

Swab the deck 

Swabbing the deck is essential to keeping a ship clean and in good condition. It involves using a mop or brush to scrub the deck clean of dirt, grime, and any other debris that may have accumulated.

Pirates use this phrase as a metaphor for taking care of their responsibilities and doing their part to keep things running smoothly. When somebody "swabs the deck," they're taking on whatever task needs to be done to help out. It's a metaphor for being responsible and helping out where needed.

That’s all for now. We hope you enjoyed these funny phrases as much as we did. Do you have any favorite funny sayings?

author: patrick algrim
About the author

Patrick Algrim is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), NCDA Certified Career Counselor (CCC), and general career expert. Patrick has completed the NACE Coaching Certification Program (CCP). And has been published as a career expert on Forbes, Glassdoor, American Express, Reader's Digest, LiveCareer, Zety, Yahoo, Recruiter.com, SparkHire, SHRM.org, Process.st, FairyGodBoss, HRCI.org, St. Edwards University, NC State University, IBTimes.com, Thrive Global, TMCnet.com, Work It Daily, Workology, Career Guide, MyPerfectResume, College Career Life, The HR Digest, WorkWise, Career Cast, Elite Staffing, Women in HR, All About Careers, Upstart HR, The Street, Monster, The Ladders, Introvert Whisperer, and many more. Find him on LinkedIn.

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