Language has a way of revealing the nuances of a place, and New York is no exception. Amidst the hustle and bustle, the crowded subway cars, and the iconic skyline, you’ll also find some unique phrases that encapsulate the spirit of the city. Here are five things you’ll only hear people say in New York.
“The City”
When New Yorkers say “The City,” they are often referring to Manhattan, even though New York City comprises five boroughs. The reason is historical; Manhattan was the original “New York City” before the city was consolidated in 1898. So, if you’re in Brooklyn and someone mentions going to “The City,” they usually mean Manhattan.
“On Line”
In most parts of the United States, people stand “in line” for services or products. Not in New York. Here, you’ll hear folks say they are “on line.” There isn’t a specific origin story for this phrase, but it’s so New York that you’ll even hear news anchors and politicians using it.
“Bodega”
The term “bodega” has its origins in the Spanish language, meaning a storeroom or wine cellar. In New York, a bodega is a small convenience store that sells everything from groceries to household items. They are a quintessential part of New York life and often a neighborhood fixture. What sets bodegas apart is their personal touch; you can usually count on the same friendly faces running the store day in, day out.
“Schmear”
Derived from the Yiddish word for “spread,” a schmear in New York refers specifically to a generous portion of cream cheese spread on a bagel. Bagels are a staple in New York cuisine, thanks to the city’s rich Jewish history. Ask for a schmear at any bagel shop in New York, and you’ll get precisely what you’re looking for.
“The Train”
While other cities might specify a subway or metro line by its designated number or letter, in New York, people often just say “the train.” For instance, “I took the train to work” or “The train was delayed again.” Of course, context matters. When specificity is required, New Yorkers will name the train line (“I took the 6 downtown”), but the generic term “the train” is understood to mean any one of the subway lines that crisscross the city.
New York’s unique lexicon is a reflection of its vibrant history, diverse population, and the daily realities of living in such a dynamic city. These terms encapsulate experiences that are quintessentially New York, making them an inseparable part of the city’s cultural fabric. So the next time you visit, keep an ear out for these phrases—you’ll know you’re in the heart of the Big Apple.