New York isn’t just a state—it’s an attitude. Whether you’re from upstate, downstate, or somewhere in between, you’ve got your own version of “New York speak.” It’s fast, it’s direct, and it’s not for the faint of heart. If you’ve ever ordered a “regular coffee” without explaining yourself or complained about tourists standing still on the sidewalk, you’re already fluent.
Table of Contents
1. “Regular coffee.”
Translation: Coffee with milk and sugar—not black.
Say it wrong in NYC and you’ll get the wrong drink and a side-eye.
2. “The city”
Translation: Always means New York City, no matter where in the state you live…