The people of Edinburgh and Scotland have some of the most creative insults in the world. Why use a regular swear word when you can destroy a person’s life with the likes of the endlessly humiliating one-liner “yer da’ sells Avon”? We asked readers the best insults which are unique to Edinburgh, and this is what they said.
5. You're from Glasgow? Oh well you have your health
"You're from Glasgow? Oh well, you have your health". The two biggest cities in Scotland, Glasgow and Edinburgh have long had a rivalry, stretching back over centuries. However it started, the bickering is here to stay - whether it's over what you put on your chips (salt and sauce) or which is the best city (Edinburgh obviously). Photo: National World
6. Yer da' sells Avon
Considered the ultimate Scottish humiliation, it's not certain where "Yer da sells Avon" originated from. It literally means your dad works for the cosmetics company. This insult not only takes aim at the insultee, but their family and their entire existence. "Consider all hope lost in your life if this is said to you" the Urban Dictionary advises. Photo: National World
7. Away and bile yer heid
"Away and bile yer heid" translates to "go away and boil your head". It's reserved for someone who is being annoying or ridiculous. Photo: National World
8. Dafty
Dafty is another cherished insult for someone who is behaving like a right idiot. Photo: National World