etymology - like and fancy???

chic

chic

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U.S.
In America if we prefer something, we say we "like" it. If something is elaborately decorated, ie. not plain, we call it "fancy".

In the U.K. if someone likes something they "fancy" it, so what do folks in the UK call something that is not plain?? Would it be "smashing" or something else???
:confused:

I've wondered about this for a long time. I know, I've got to much time on my hands sometimes. :sentimental:
 
chic said:
In America if we prefer something, we say we "like" it. If something is elaborately decorated, ie. not plain, we call it "fancy".

In the U.K. if someone likes something they "fancy" it, so what do folks in the UK call something that is not plain?? Would it be "smashing" or something else???
:confused:

I've wondered about this for a long time. I know, I've got to much time on my hands sometimes. :sentimental:
Click to expand...

Yes you do, but I love the way you actually "think" about stuff. I've been doing that myself, all my life.
A little "off topic" but its amazing how many things we humans do that given a little thought are totally ridiculous.
 
There's a difference between to like and to fancy when used as a verb. To like is to like, but to fancy means to want to own or have.
eg.. " I like beer" means exactly that, but "I fancy a beer" means "I would like a beer".

As an adjective, fancy is the opposite of plain, but maybe in a slightly "kitsch" way - perhaps suggesting bright or garish.
 
Capt Lightning said:
There's a difference between to like and to fancy when used as a verb. To like is to like, but to fancy means to want to own or have.
eg.. " I like beer" means exactly that, but "I fancy a beer" means "I would like a beer".

As an adjective, fancy is the opposite of plain, but maybe in a slightly "kitsch" way - perhaps suggesting bright or garish.
Click to expand...

Spot on .. :)
 
Thanks everyone. So "fancy" can mean not plain as well as the desire to want something for oneself. Like... I "fancy" a cuppa, I "fancy" that coat. That coat is too "fancy" for me. This really helps.
 
Chic, when I think about it, fancy is one of those words that means a number of things depending on the context.

Other common uses .... "he really fancies himself" - in other words he is very egoistic, has a high opinion of himself etc..

"fancy that" - that's a surprize , I'd never have guessed that etc.. (sometimes said if you're not impressed)
 
One of the delights of being a writer is being able to savor language and all it's regional distinctions...but I do fancy a cuppa right about now;)
 
Capt Lightning said:
Chic, when I think about it, fancy is one of those words that means a number of things depending on the context.

Other common uses .... "he really fancies himself" - in other words he is very egoistic, has a high opinion of himself etc..

"fancy that" - that's a surprize , I'd never have guessed that etc.. (sometimes said if you're not impressed)
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Thanks Capt. I completely forgot the expression, "fancy that"! Well, fancy that! ;)
 
There are loads of slang terms for 'good', but "Smashing" is very old-fashioned.

Here's a good slang Scottish word for you:- "Stoater". It means 'of good quality or appearance'. Often applied to attractive young ladies - "She's a wee Stoater"
 
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