Every place has its own style of talking, and Utah is no different. Whether it’s the way people speak, their funny expressions, or unique slang, locals in Utah definitely have a language of their own. If you ever visit or move there, don’t be surprised if someone says something that makes you pause and laugh. Here are 10 hilarious sayings and phrases you’ll probably only hear in Utah – and what they actually mean!
1. “Oh my heck!”
This is a classic Utah way of saying “Oh my God!” – but in a polite and family-friendly way. People say it when they’re surprised, excited, or even annoyed.
2. “Sluffing class”
In most places, skipping school is called “cutting” or “bunking” class. But in Utah, students say they’re “sluffing” class. It sounds funny but means the same thing.
3. “Don’t be such a chucker!”
A “chucker” is someone who throws things just for fun – usually in sports. But in Utah, this saying is often used in a teasing way, calling someone out for being careless or goofy.
4. “I’m going to the DI”
People in Utah often say they’re going to “the DI,” which means the Deseret Industries – a thrift store like Goodwill. It’s very popular in Utah, especially among bargain hunters.
5. “Pass me a fry sauce”
Utahns love their fry sauce – a mix of ketchup and mayo. It’s so loved, you might hear someone ask for it just like that at a fast-food place.
6. “We’re heading up to the cabin”
In Utah, it seems like everyone has a “cabin” in the mountains. Even if it’s a small hut or just a family hangout spot, saying “up to the cabin” is very common.
7. “So, are you LDS?”
This question pops up often. It means, “Are you a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?” Utah has a large Mormon population, so this is a regular topic.
8. “That’s a Utah minute!”
A “Utah minute” usually means something will take longer than expected – like when someone says, “Give me a minute,” but it turns into 10.
9. “I’m just gonna grab a Dirty Diet Coke”
In Utah, soda shops are a big deal. People often mix soda with flavors like coconut, lime, or cream. A “Dirty Diet Coke” is a fun and tasty favourite.
10. “That snow is the greatest on Earth”
Utahns are proud of their snow – and you’ll hear this phrase a lot. It’s even printed on their license plates! Locals believe their snow is perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Utah is full of unique charm, and the way people talk is part of what makes it so interesting. These sayings might sound funny to outsiders, but they reflect the culture, lifestyle, and humor of the people who live there. So the next time you hear someone say “Oh my heck!” or ask for a “Dirty Diet Coke,” just smile and enjoy the local flavour of Utah speech. It’s all part of the fun!
SOURCES
[1] https://ksub590.com/utahisms-slang-and-idioms-to-tickle-your-fancy/
[2] https://www.deseret.com/2019/6/21/20794577/these-11-phrases-are-a-dead-giveaway-that-you-re-from-utah/
[3] https://www.iheart.com/alternate/amp/2021-04-21-10-slang-words-youll-only-know-if-youre-from-utah/
[4] https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/utah-slang
[5] https://www.ksl.com/article/51273584/unique-expressions-that-immediately-identify-someone-from-utah
