To the outsider, Louisiana can feel like an entirely different world. Have you ever tried to explain to an out of owner what a crawfish boil is? How about Mardi Gras? Good luck trying to explain a Cajun Mardi Gras. We certainly have our own way of doing things, from our food to our greetings to one another. If you've lived in Louisiana long enough, you're bound to pick up on a few unique words and phrases. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. C’est tout
(Pronounced: "Say too")
That’s all! Yep, that’s what it means. That’s all.
2. Chevrette
(Pronounced: "She-vret")
A fancy word for shrimp. Who’s hungry?
3. Cocodril
(Pronounced: "Ko-ko-dree")
Louisiana’s favorite swamp monster, the alligator, gets an upgrade when you call them cocodrils.
4. Envie
(Pronounced: "Ahn-vee")
Have you ever had a longing to do or eat something? Well then, you have an envie, Cher.
5. Cher
(Pronounced: "Sha")
A term of endearment to use with your loved ones!
6. Fais do-do
(Pronounced: "Fay doe-doe")
This is your standard Cajun dance party, typically taking place after the little ones have gone to bed.
7. Lagniappe
(Pronounced: "Lan-yap")
Just a little something extra! You may get a little lagniappe at a restaurant with an extra shrimp, a small bite, or something special.
8. Laissez les bons temps rouler
(Pronounced: "Lay say lay bohn tohn roo lay))
Let the good times roll, y’all!
How many of these phrases do you use on a daily basis? What other words and phrases would you add to the list? Add yours in the comments! And for further reading, test your knowledge with our previous article where we highlight some of the most surprising facts about Louisiana most people don't know.
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