Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Illinois:
- “Da Bears”
Not just a football team chant but a way of life for Chicagoans. You’ll hear it everywhere rooting for their beloved Bears. - “The L”
Refers to Chicago’s elevated train system. Locals say, “I’ll meet you at the L station,” and it’s instantly understood. - “Pop”
Instead of soda or cola, Illinoisans say “pop.” Ordering a drink means asking for a “can of pop”. - “Jeet?”
A shortened slang for “Did you eat?” common in Chicago vernacular. It’s a quick way of checking if someone’s eaten. - “Better get it while it’s hot”
Usually said about deep-dish pizza, a real Chicago staple. The phrase means act fast because the pizza won’t last long. - “Ain’t nobody got time for that”
Used when something is unimportant or a waste of time. It’s a humorous way to dismiss something trivial. - “You got a beef?”
A colorful way to ask if someone has a problem or issue, often with a playful tone. - “Havin’ a conniption”
Means losing one’s temper or flipping out. It’s the Midwest’s fun and quirky way to say someone is freaking out. - “Chuck a U-ey”
Meaning making a U-turn while driving. It’s short, direct, and typically heard in casual conversation. - “Ope”
A small, quick exclamation used when bumping into someone or needing to get past—very typical Midwestern politeness.
These sayings capture the fun, quirky spirit of Illinois and help you sound like a true local if you ever visit or live there.
SOURCES
(https://wheninyourstate.com/illinois/19-unique-sayings-that-only-make-sense-in-illinois/)(https://97zokonline.com/illinois-sayings-others-dont-understand/)
(https://967theeagle.net/not-from-illinois-you-wont-understand-these-6-expressions/)(https://www.iheart.com/content/2021-08-23-if-you-use-this-slang-word-you-probably-grew-up-in-illinois/)(https://www.reddit.com/r/illinois/comments/12lw6kj/what_is_something_only_illinoisans_or/)
