How British Citizens Prefer to Be Referring to Ourselves: Insights From Different Regions

The term 'British' is often used as an umbrella term for people living in Great Britain, but it is a contentious one. This article explores how people across different regions of the United Kingdom prefer to be referred to by foreigners, highlighting the nuances and regional identities that shape this preference.

British vs. English: A Common Identity vs. Regional Pride

The term 'British' has a broad connotation and is typically used to refer to citizens living in Great Britain, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, some individuals do not identify solely with this term. As one Scottish respondent notes:

Just call me a respectful name. - British or English or even Terry but never ‘oy you’.
- I am Scottish so it's Scottish as I don't identify as the same.
- I could say the same for people from different parts of Northern Ireland UK and I am sure it's quite a subjective question you've asked as not everyone identifies as 'British' here.

While 'British' is a widely accepted term, some individuals prefer more specific identity labels to express their regional pride. For example, a person from London who also identifies as Welsh may prefer to be called 'London Welshman'.

Personal Preferences and Local Identities

Some individuals have their own preferences on what they want to be called, often connected to their personal or family history. One respondent explains:

I am called La Inglesa. I have no problems with this. We were called different things in Asia. I can't remember if they were rude or not.

Another individual, Ricky, prefers to be called by his first name, derived from his Christening:

I prefer to be called "Ricky" as that is the Christian name that my parents chose and was Christened thus. How does it work where you live?

Similar preferences are evident in other regions:

I've never liked the term 'Brits'. If someone asks me if I am a Brit, I try to answer with a circumlocution of some kind to avoid saying 'yes'.
Id prefer they asked if I am from England, Wales, Scotland, or whatever and then I'll tell them where I live.
My simple answer is 'I am a London Welshman'.

Commonly Used Terms and Their Preferences

Given the regional diversity, it is important to understand the correct and respectful terms to use when referring to individuals from Great Britain. Here are some commonly used terms:

British - is a widely accepted term that covers people from all parts of Great Britain, including England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Britons - is technically correct when used as a noun but is considered somewhat outdated and formal. It is rarely used in everyday language. Brits - is a colloquial term that some criticize as vulgar and in poor grammar. It is generally avoided in formal contexts.

In the context of the UK, Northern Ireland is not part of Great Britain (GB) but is part of the United Kingdom (UK). Hence, people from Northern Ireland may refer to themselves as:

Ulstermen Northern Irish Irish (if they have Irish ancestry)

People from other regions, such as the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, have distinct identities and may prefer to refer to themselves as:

Isle of Man residents Channel Islanders

Regional Identities in Context

The term 'British' is widely accepted and convenient, but it is important to contextualize regional identities. For example:

Black British - individuals of African Caribbean descent who identify with British culture. British Asians - individuals of South Asian descent who also identify with British culture.

These terms help to capture the diversity within the British identity, reflecting the complex interplay of race, ethnicity, and national affiliation.

Conclusion

While the term 'British' is a convenient and widely accepted umbrella term, it is important to recognize and respect regional identities within Great Britain. Here is a summary of the key points:

British: A broad term for all citizens of Great Britain, acceptable in most contexts. Brits: Informal and often seen as incorrect or vulgar. Britons: Technically correct but outdated and rarely used in modern conversation.

Understanding and respecting regional identities can help foster a more inclusive and respectful dialogue, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures and regional pride that makes up Great Britain.