Think You’re a True New Yorker? See If You Know These 11 Words!

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New York, the Empire State, is a melting pot of cultures, accents, and dialects. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just spent some time in the Big Apple, you’ve probably noticed that New Yorkers have a language of their own.

From the iconic “Hey, I’m walkin’ here!” to the intricacies of local food lingo, there are a few words and phrases that prove you’ve truly mastered New York culture. If you think you’re a true New Yorker, test your knowledge with these 11 words. Can you say them like a native?

1. “Bodega”

In New York, the term bodega refers to a small, neighborhood convenience store. It’s the heart of any block, selling everything from snacks and drinks to fresh sandwiches and even pet supplies. The bodega is where you pick up your daily essentials, and no true New Yorker would ever call it anything else.

2. “Caw-fee”

If you’ve spent time in New York, you know the drill: It’s not “coffee”—it’s caw-fee. You’ll hear it pronounced this way all over the city, especially in the early morning hours when New Yorkers are grabbing their cups of joe from their local deli or bodega. It’s a distinctly New York thing.

3. “The City”

When New Yorkers say “The City”, they’re not talking about just any city—they mean Manhattan. It’s a special designation that sets the five boroughs apart. No need to specify which borough you’re in; if you’re in “The City,” it’s understood that you mean Manhattan, the heart of New York.

4. “Schlep”

This Yiddish word, which means to carry or drag something, is a staple in the New York vocabulary. Whether you’re carrying groceries, dragging your laundry down the block, or just making the trek through the city, you’ve probably had to schlep something at one point or another.

5. “Stoop”

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If you’ve ever walked around a New York City neighborhood, you’ve likely seen people sitting on their stoops, which are the small front steps outside of brownstones and buildings. It’s a beloved New York tradition to hang out on the stoop, talk to neighbors, and people-watch. It’s a prime spot for a casual evening in the city.

6. “Pie”

In most places, you might order a pizza, but in New York, it’s all about the pie. Whether you’re grabbing a slice on the go or picking up a whole one to share with friends, you’re not getting a “pizza”—you’re getting a pie. And of course, it’s going to be thin-crust, New York-style.

7. “Yankee”

Whether you’re talking about baseball or just giving someone a playful nickname, Yankee is a term you’ll hear often in New York. Most notably, it’s used to refer to fans of the New York Yankees, one of the most successful baseball teams in history. But it’s also a term used for someone who hails from the northern U.S., often with a bit of that famous New York pride.

8. “Fuhgeddaboudit”

This iconic New York expression, made famous in movies and TV shows, means “forget about it.” It’s used to express disbelief, disinterest, or when something is just too good (or bad) to even talk about. For example, if someone suggests a difficult task, you might respond with, “Fuhgeddaboudit!”

9. “Knish”

A knish is a traditional Jewish pastry filled with potato, meat, or other fillings. Found at many delis and bakeries throughout New York, the knish is a beloved snack, often served as a quick bite to eat during a busy day. You’ll find this warm, savory treat in neighborhoods across the city, particularly in places with a strong Eastern European influence.

10. “The LIRR”

If you’re traveling on Long Island, you might be familiar with the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). The LIRR is the major commuter train system that connects Long Island with Manhattan, and every New Yorker knows that getting a seat during rush hour can be a real struggle. It’s the go-to transport for commuters heading into the city or back home after work.

11. “Cringe”

While it may have originated in internet slang, cringe is a word New Yorkers have adopted into their daily vocabulary. Used to describe something that’s awkward, uncomfortable, or just downright embarrassing, it’s often heard in a conversation between friends when something odd happens—especially if it’s socially awkward.

Why These Words Matter

The New York vernacular isn’t just a collection of phrases and words; it’s a reflection of the city’s history and diverse population. From its immigrant roots to its bustling urban atmosphere, New York City’s language embodies its energy, character, and fast-paced lifestyle.

For those who live here, these words are more than just words—they’re part of the city’s DNA. The way New Yorkers speak tells you everything you need to know about their hometown. Whether you’re rushing through the streets of Manhattan or grabbing a late-night slice, these words help you feel like you’re part of something bigger. So, the next time you’re in New York, use these words and phrases to show you’re truly a local.

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