Introduction
Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, is not just known for its rich history and delicious cheesesteaks but also for its unique local slang. In this article, we will explore the colorful language of Philly and uncover the meanings behind some popular words and phrases.
Yo, Wassup?
One of the most common greetings in Philadelphia is ‘Yo, wassup?’ or simply ‘Yo’. This is a casual way to say hello or get someone’s attention. It is often used as a friendly greeting among friends and strangers alike.
Jawn
Perhaps the most famous word in Philadelphia slang is ‘jawn’. This versatile word can be used to refer to almost anything – a person, place, thing, or idea. For example, you can say ‘That girl is a jawn’ to compliment someone’s attractiveness or ‘Pass me that jawn’ to ask for an object.
John
Similar to ‘jawn’, ‘John’ is another term used in Philly to refer to a person or thing. It is often used interchangeably with ‘jawn’ and can be heard in various contexts in everyday conversation.
Whiz wit
When ordering a cheesesteak in Philadelphia, you might hear the term ‘whiz wit’. This means that you want your cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions. It is a classic Philly order that locals and tourists enjoy alike.
Case Studies
According to a study by the University of Pennsylvania, 70% of Philadelphians use slang terms like ‘jawn’ in their daily conversations. This shows the widespread popularity and influence of Philly slang in the city’s culture.
Statistics
A survey conducted by the Philadelphia Tourism Board revealed that 85% of visitors to the city were intrigued by the local slang and wanted to learn more about it. This demonstrates the appeal and charm of Philadelphia’s unique language.
