Only Fools & Horses: A Treasure of Memorable Expressions

Shady Abuyusuf

Sun, 24 Nov 2024

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Only Fools and Horses, a classic British sitcom, first graced our television screens in 1981. Created by the late John Sullivan, the show became an all-time favourite, capturing the hearts of millions with its sharp wit and extraordinary characters. Centred around the antics of peckish market traders Derek “Del Boy” Trotter and his brother Rodney, the series not only entertained audiences but also contributed many memorable expressions that have since made their way into everyday English.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of these wonderful and colourful expressions, highlighting their origins and meanings.

1. Lovely Jubbly

Perhaps the most well-known catchphrase from the show is the ever-optimistic Del Boy’s “Lovely jubbly!” Initially an advertising slogan for the orange-flavoured drink Jubbly, this phrase became synonymous with Del Boy’s character. Now used to express delight or approval, “Lovely jubbly!” can be heard far beyond the streets of Peckham.

Example: After finding a cheap but fantastic holiday deal online, you might exclaim, “Lovely jubbly! I can’t believe we got such a bargain!”

2. Plonker

A term of endearment often used by Del Boy to describe his hapless brother, the word “plonker” originates from British Cockney slang. Although seemingly an insult, it is often used affectionately, referencing someone’s foolish or clumsy behaviour.

Example: After seeing your friend accidentally knock over a glass of water, you could jokingly refer to them as a “plonker.”

3. This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!

Del Boy’s eternal optimism and relentless belief in striking it rich came to life in his often-repeated phrase, “This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!” While this saying may not have originated with Only Fools and Horses, it certainly gained popularity through the TV series. It is now used to express relentless optimism or a desire to become wealthy eventually, despite setbacks or an apparent lack of opportunity.

Example: When discussing dreams and aspirations with your friends, you might say with a grin, “This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!”

4. You Know It Makes Sense

Another catchphrase from Witty Del Boy, “You know it makes sense,” is typically spoken when trying to persuade others – often to buy some of his less-than-reputable goods. Nowadays, it is a lighthearted expression to encourage someone’s agreement or understanding.

Example: If you suggest a fantastic idea for a team project at work, you might confidently add, “You know it makes sense.”

5. Trotter’s Independent Traders (TIT)

To highlight their entrepreneurial spirit and independent nature, Del and Rodney’s trading business is named “Trotter’s Independent Traders,” often shortened to “TIT” as a humorous acronym. This is now used as a fun and cheeky way of referring to small, independent traders or businesses with a similar attitude.

Example: “Check out that little stall selling handmade crafts – it’s like a Trotter’s Independent Traders in our hometown!”

The incredible writing and characters of Only Fools and Horses have left an indelible mark on British television and culture. The colourful expressions that this popular sitcom popularised have become part of the English lexicon, adding a touch of humour and familiarity to our daily conversations. So, the next time you catch yourself saying, “Lovely jubbly!” or “You know it makes sense,” you can thank Del Boy and the rest of the Trotter family for their enduring wit and wisdom.