7 Most Misused Southern Sayings – Southern Living

Southerners have their fair share of unique sayings and phrases, from the classic “hold your horses!” to the ever-charming “heavens to Betsy!” However, there are some quirky ditties that even multigenerational Southerners might not have ever heard, or that people commonly use in the wrong way. Is it a compliment? An insult? Just pure confusion? Expressions that seem to defy explanation happen to be our favorite kind, and the meanings are often just inherently known by those who grew up hearing it.

Which Southern phrases are most commonly misused, misunderstood, or generally in need of some clarification? Turns out, y’all have your opinions on the matter, so we asked and you answered. These are the 7 Southern phrases that people misuse the most.

The Most Misused Southern Phrase Of All 

Bless Your Heart

Without a doubt, this was the most popular answer—so popular we could actually feel the annoyance through the screen. It seems while most people agree that this classic Southernism is typically meant more sassy than sweet, there are many passionate people who disagree. Here’s how we see it.

If you’re hearing “bless your heart” in the South, it probably has an edge to it. It certainly can be deployed sincerely, yet it’s almost always accompanied by a good-natured, perhaps slightly exasperated, shake of the head. It can express empathy or judgment, or it can be said in place of a person’s true feelings.

Most of all, Southerners know that when “bless your heart” is uttered during conversation, the meaning depends on the context. Yes, it can be a backhanded comment, but it can also be a genuine expression of sympathy. For example, a “bless his/her heart” spoken in a whisper is often conspiratorial. Yet, a “bless your heart” spoken directly with a kind smile is an expression of empathy or concern.

In the end, some “bless your hearts” are just plain sass. Receiving this “bless your heart” is a Southern rite of passage. Don’t sweat it.

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