Scottish English facts for kids

Scottish English, also known as Scottish Standard English or Standard Scottish English (SSE), is a way of speaking English that is used in Scotland. People can often tell Scottish English apart from British English because of its unique accents, grammar, and words. It's like a special version of English that has grown up in Scotland.

It's important not to mix up Scottish English with Scots, which is a different language. Scots is very similar to English, but it's its own language. However, the Scots language has definitely influenced Scottish English over time. Many people in Scotland can speak both Scots and Scottish English, and they often switch smoothly between the two depending on who they are talking to or what they are doing.

What Makes Scottish English Unique?

Scottish English has its own special features that make it stand out. These include how words are pronounced, the vocabulary used, and sometimes even the way sentences are put together. It's a living example of how languages change and adapt in different places.

How Sounds Are Different

The way people pronounce words is one of the biggest differences in Scottish English. For example, the 'r' sound is often rolled or trilled, which is different from how it's usually said in most parts of England. Also, some vowel sounds might be shorter or longer, giving Scottish English its distinct sound.

Special Words and Phrases

Scottish English uses many words and phrases that you might not hear in other English-speaking countries. These words often come from the old Scots language. For example:

• wee means "small" or "little"
• braw means "good" or "excellent"
• outwith means "outside of" or "beyond"

These words are a fun part of the language and help make Scottish English unique.

Grammar and Structure

While Scottish English mostly follows the same grammar rules as other types of English, there are a few small differences. Sometimes, the way verbs are used or how questions are formed can be a little different. These small changes add to the character of Scottish English.

History of Scottish English

Scottish English started to develop after the 17th century. Before that, Scots was the main language spoken by many people in Scotland. As Standard English became more common, it mixed with the local Scots language. This mixing created Scottish English, which is a blend of both. It shows how languages can evolve when different groups of people and their ways of speaking come together.

Images for kids

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  A Book of Psalms printed during the time of James VI and I

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  An example of "outwith" on a sign in Scotland