“Ah, please forgive me for my Freudian slip.”

I nod, smile, and stay silent.

It would probably be a good idea for me to Google who that Freud fellow is and why I hear his name being thrown into conversation every now and again. Alas, I’ve now heard it multiple times and still do not yet know why this Freud person is constantly slipping. Does he need new shoes?

It appears the Cambridge lingo is filled with various words and phrases that are rarely heard outside our distinctive bubble. And not only that, with such a variety of societies to attend and places to frequent, the linguistic diversification within each situation is truly remarkable.

“It appears the Cambridge lingo is filled with various words and phrases that are rarely heard outside our distinctive bubble”

Perhaps it all stems from the coining of abbreviations such as plodge and JCR, which ensure the utmost convenience when explaining one’s destination of choice. It is, of course, rather important to manage one’s time wisely, and thus the use of plodge instead of porters’ lodge and Mainsburys instead of the Sainsbury’s in the centre of town is indispensable to maximising our efficiency in Cambridge.

We are introduced to these specific terms right in Freshers’ week as we sign up to a plethora of societies, all of us scribbling down the CRSIDs newly ingrained into our mind, at every stall we come across (but is it mf689 or mf698?). This newfound variety in our language and frequently used vocabulary becomes vital to survival in our new realm.

Phrases can also be socially divisive, with perhaps the most widespread example that comes to mind being the phrase composed of five words: ”you love to see it”. For some, its versatility is its USP (unique selling point), allowing its use in a multitude of contexts. What’s more, it is a far more exciting and positive expression than “mmm”, “that’s nice" or “I like that!” For others, the phrase represents little more than an echo chamber of voices. Perhaps I am over-analysing said phrase, but I must admit that I have witnessed first-hand a sharp split of opinion on the matter.

The day nears its end and it is time for the evening socialising to begin. We are sat ready for formal hall and the gong sounds. Latin prayers are read. Once again, I sit and nod in silence. For all I know, the Latin grace could translate to England are going to win Euro 2020.

As the night carries on, we later proceed to the holy grail, Cindies. The chat is absolute class. Never have I seen words flow so exquisitely from the mouths of intoxicated human beings: “The orange VK is undoubtedly the most delectable – it truly is awe-inspiring how similar it tastes to the nectar of the gods”.

In day to day life, words such as stash and pidge are not just part of our Cambridge lives, they are integral to it. Sometimes I wonder whether it is not only my northern accent that has changed, but the words that I used to pair with it. Quite an existential thought, I must admit, but one which should perhaps be acknowledged nonetheless.