New Jersey
12 Phrases Only a True New Jerseyan Says and Understands
New Jersey might be small, but it’s loud, proud, and unapologetically unique. From the Shore to the suburbs, the Turnpike to the Pine Barrens, locals speak with a confidence (and volume) that outsiders can’t always keep up with. If you’ve ever argued over the best bagel shop, refused to pump your own gas, or given directions based on exits, you’re definitely one of us.
1. “What exit?”
Translation: The official New Jersey way to ask where you’re from.
Your answer better come with a Parkway or Turnpike number.
2. “It’s Taylor Ham.” / “No, it’s Pork Roll.”
Translation: The state’s most heated food debate.
North Jersey says “Taylor Ham,” South Jersey says “Pork Roll,” and Central Jersey… doesn’t exist (depending on who you ask).
3. “We don’t pump our own gas.”
Translation: State law says you stay in the car and let someone else do it.
We like it that way. Don’t touch the nozzle.
4. “Down the Shore.”
Translation: Going to the Jersey Shore.
It’s never “to the beach.” And yes, we have a favorite exit for our favorite town.
5. “Benny” or “Shoobie.”
Translation: What we call certain tourists—depends on which part of the Shore you’re from.
Said with a mix of annoyance and begrudging acceptance.
6. “We’re going to Wawa.”
Translation: The convenience store/gas station/hoagie haven that’s basically a religion.
If you know, you know.
7. “Jersey tomatoes are the best.”
Translation: We will fight anyone who disagrees.
And don’t even start on our sweet corn.
8. “Take Route 1… but avoid it during rush hour.”
Translation: Route 1 is always a mess, but somehow still the fastest way.
9. “The jughandle’s coming up.”
Translation: Our weird left-turn system is normal to us, confusing to everyone else.
10. “We’re in line at the deli.”
Translation: This could mean a bagel shop, an Italian deli, or a place that sells mozzarella so fresh it squeaks.
11. “I hit every light on Route 9.”
Translation: My day is ruined.
If you know, you know.
12. “Garden State.”
Translation: Yes, we have a lot of highways, but we also have farmland, vineyards, and more greenery than you’d expect.
If you’ve said these phrases while sipping coffee from a Wawa cup, arguing over the best pizza in the state, or defending New Jersey from its undeserved stereotypes, you’re speaking fluent Jersey. Just remember: we don’t pump our own gas, we take pride in our tomatoes, and if you’re not from here—you better watch how you talk about our state.
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