13 Words You’ll Only Understand If You’re From Minnesota

Minnesotans have a unique set of sayings that reflect their culture and identity.

While we Minnesotans may be recognized across the country for our Minnesota accents. The words we use - i.e., our Minnesota sayings - are much more important than how we say them. The Land of 10,000 Lakes has its very own language, which is quite unique. Listed below are 13 of the most unique things Minnesotans say. Do you use any of these Minnesota phrases on a regular basis?

1. Uff da

This is an often-used exclamation among most millennials, but used frequently by older Minnesotans. It can be used whenever feeling overwhelmed, disgruntled, surprised, tired, or relieved, among other emotions.

2. You betcha

This phrase is commonly used to agree or add to a sentence.

3. Skol! Vikings!

These words to the fight song are really all we need in order to show our love for the team.

4. Pop

In Minnesota, it's not soda or soda pop. It's simply "pop."

5. Hotdish

Hotdish is a delicious dish consisting of ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, some veggies (I like a frozen mixed bag), and, of course, tater tots. It shouldn't be confused with casserole.

6. Interesting

That's interesting... During a conversation, Minnesotans are too nice to actually voice their opinion.

7. Goodbye

Whenever a Minnesotan says "goodbye," it's a long and drawn-out process often taking multiple hours and many hugs and handshakes.

8. Skijor

Skijor is a sport that involves dogs pulling people on skis.

9. Up North

Up North is where all the lakes and cabins are, and where you go in summer and winter... and spring, as well as fall. It doesn't matter the actual direction.

10. Lutefisk

If you don't know what this word means, you've never been to Minnesota.

11. Nice

In Minnesota, "nice" actually means 12 people stopping to help when they see a car that might be stuck.

12. Dontcha know

"Dontcha know this stereotype can be true!" No matter how hard Minnesotans may fight it, it still happens.

13. Cold

Minnesotans might be the only Americans to use the real meaning of the word "cold"... it's one of the most Minnesota things to say that there is!

If you speak fluent Minnesotan, whether you care to admit it or not, these things only Minnesotans say will sneak their way into your daily life. What other things Minnesotans say have you noticed? If you use any of these sayings or phrases on a regular basis, you must be as proud of your Minnesota roots as we are of ours.

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