Classic British weather-based phrases such as ‘the heavens have opened’ or ‘it’s blowing a gale’ are at risk of extinction – as Gen Z never use them.
A poll of 2,000 adults found only five per cent of 18-24-year-olds have used the term ‘brass monkeys’ to describe freezing conditions.
And just one in 10 have ever referred to ‘Jack Frost’ visiting when the mercury dips.
The poll of 2,000 adults found 39 per cent will happily discuss atmospheric conditions with anyone who will listen.
The research was commissioned by Network Rail, which has teamed up with railway historian and TV presenter Tim Dunn to offer Brits the chance to name one of their specialised ‘leaf-busting’ trains, which clear leaves from railway tracks and help keep passengers moving in autumn and winter.
Tim Dunn said: “I’m delighted to get behind this campaign, which highlights how Network Rail’s leaf-busters help reduce delays and keep passengers moving during the autumn period.
“This is a terrific opportunity for the public to name one of these high-tech marvellous machines so get those suggestions in now.
1. Here comes Old Phoebe
2. That’s a gust
3. Mackerel Sky
4. It’s slinging it down
5. Jack Frost has visited
6. Blowing a hoolie
7. Brass monkeys
8. It’s lashing it down
9. The Heavens have opened
10. It’s blowing a gale
“I’m confident you can do better than my entry: ‘Trainy McTrainFace.”
The research highlighted regional differences in weather chat, with ‘it’s blowing a gale’ most used in Scotland, while ‘it’s lashing it down’ was most common in the north-east of England.
And ‘it’s raining cats and dogs’ is most likely to be heard in the south than anywhere else, according to the OnePoll.com figures.
The poll also found more than half (54 per cent) of adults felt heavy snow was the most disruptive weather condition to their day-to-day life.
More than a tenth (14 per cent) of adults have struck up a conversation about weather with a total stranger while commuting.
Lisa Angus, Network Rail’s industry weather response director, said: “The scale of the operation involved in keeping passengers moving through the autumn is monumental and this year will be our biggest yet.
“Our leaf-busting trains are the unsung heroes of the British autumn and we’re excited to hear the creative naming nominations for one of the vehicles which will travel the length and breadth of the country this year to keep the railway running safely and reliably.”
Name nominations can be sent to nametheleafbuster@networkrail.co.uk before Friday 20th September or by using #NameTheLeafbuster on X.
