15 August 2023 , 07:30
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No one would argue with the fact the royals aren't like "normal" people. They live in palaces and sprawling manors. We don't. They're fabulously wealthy. We live in permanent fear of our card being declined.
The numerous differences also - and obviously - go far beyond the material and fiscal. Unsurprisingly, the Royal family have a very different way of speaking. Social anthropologist and author of Watching the English, Kate Fox, has given us a fascinating insight into the vocabulary loved by the Royals. Specifically, there are certain words Prince William, the Queen, Prince Charles and co. NEVER use - and which Meghan and Kate might have had to ditch, and here they are.
1. Pardon
We'd always thought 'pardon' was more polite than the alternatives. Not being royal, however, we were wrong. 'Pardon', Mamamia reveals, is forbidden to use. Instead, if you haven't heard what the King Charles has just said to you, you should say 'sorry?' or even 'sorry, what?' Or simply pretend you have heard with a nod and a smile. It may be for the best.
2. Toilet
The word 'toilet' may be a more palatable term than 'bog' or 'loo', but it's the latter which is used whenever a member of the House of Windsor needs to relieve themselves. 'Toilet' is French by origin, so is apparently avoided. So, if you're ever wandering the vast corridors in Buckingham Palace, desperate for a tinkle, ask the nearest footman where the LOO is.
3. Perfume
Complimenting someone on how they smell is a tricky one. It's a fine line between coming across simply as nice, or just plain creepy. Unfortunately, the Royal's preferred word for perfume won't help. The Royals don't wear perfume. They wear scent . Sadly, "I like your scent" will always sound creepy. Fact.
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4. Tea
According to Kate Fox, one surefire way of outing yourself as being decidedly un-royal is to refer to your evening meal as 'tea'. If you do want to convince her you're blue blooded, invite Kate Middleton around for 'dinner' or 'supper'. She probably won't come, but at least she'll know to which meal you're refering.
5. Lounge
The palaces have many rooms, but not one of them is a lounge, nor a living room. This isn't because the Royals aren't permitted a space to watch Corrie or play Cards Against Humanity. Instead, it's because they retire to either a 'drawing room' or 'sitting room'. There are also no couches in their sitting rooms - only sofas, dahling (or thrones).
6. Posh
The first rule of being posh? You never refer to someone - or yourself - as being posh. According to Kate, you're 'smart'.
7. Dessert
When you get the royal summons to come for supper, don't expect dessert. Instead, satisfy your sweet tooth with 'pudding', which is what the royals say.