British

the best of British (luck)

A wish for good luck, used especially when it is believed that there is not much chance for success or a positive outcome. Primarily heard in UK. You want to play for Man U one day? The best of British! I don't think he'll succeed, but I wish him the best of British luck.
See also: best, British, of

the British are coming

cliché Used as a humorous way of announcing the arrival of British people, businesses, commodities, etc., typically in the headlines of news articles. Commonly but erroneously attributed to Paul Revere, a Patriot in the American Revolution who is said to have uttered the phrase during his "midnight ride" to warn other patriots as to the movement of British troops. The British are coming, the British are coming! Plans are officially being made for UK's superstar pop band to play a huge tour across North America.
See also: British, coming

the British disease

That which supposedly plagues British people, government, or society. Used especially in reference to an inability or unwillingness to be as productive as possible. The real British disease is not complacency or unrest, but the desire to achieve short-term goals at the cost of investing in long-term, sustainable economic policies.
See also: British, disease
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

the best of British

used to wish someone well in an enterprise, especially when you are almost sure it will be unsuccessful. informal
This phrase is an abbreviation of the best of British luck to you .
See also: best, British, of

the British disease

a problem or failing supposed to be characteristically British, especially (formerly) a proneness to industrial unrest. informal
See also: British, disease
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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