You'll Never Hear The Royal Family Use These Words: What Are They?

The British royal family is known for their commitment to protocol and attention to tradition. According to Hello, this emphasis on correct etiquette also trickles over into the specific language that is used. As it turns out, it seems that there are certain terms one should avoid using if speaking to Queen Elizabeth II or Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

According to social anthropologist Kate Fox, author of "Watching the English: The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour," there is a list of identified verbal dos and don'ts when addressing the royal family.

1. Pardon

Many people think of this word as being quite polite, but that is not the case when it comes to the royals. Instead, you are advised to instead opt for "sorry?" or "what?" if you are asking for the speaker to repeat something.

2. Posh

In many circles, the word "posh" is used when describing upper classes, but the royal family would be more inclined to switch it out for "smart." According to Fox, the only time that "posh" would be used would be "ironically, in a jokey tone, to show that you know it's a low-class word."

3. Perfume

Another word that is frowned upon by the royal household is "perfume." It is reported that they much prefer the word "scent."

4. Tea

The royals also refrain from using the term "tea" to describe a gathering. Instead, they say "dinner" or "supper." Referring to something as "tea" is a surefire way to out yourself as a non-royal, says Fox.

5. Lounge

The family members also swap out the term "lounge" for "sitting room" or "drawing room." In addition, they also prefer "sofa" to "couch."

6. Toilet

The words "Lavatory" or "loo" are used instead of "toilet" because, historically, the royal family turned away from the word due its French origins, says Fox.

7. Mum and Dad

In some instances, people refer to their parents as "mum and dad" as they age. However, in the royal household, younger-sounding terms are preferred, such as "mummy" or "pops."

Additionally, Reader's Digest reports that "dessert" should be exchanged for "pudding," "refreshments" should instead be "food and drink," and "portion" should become "helping sizes."