The use of British expressions in American TV shows is a practice known as "Anglicism." Anglicism refers to the adoption or borrowing of words, phrases, or expressions from the English language into another language. In the case of Supernatural, the show's creator Eric Kripke, as well as the writers, drew inspiration from British culture, literature, and mythology, which led to the inclusion of certain expressions and phrases that may be more commonly used in the United Kingdom. Some examples include:
- "Blimey!" - An exclamation expressing surprise or astonishment.
- "Cheeky" - Used to describe someone who is bold, impertinent, or disrespectful in a humorous or playful way.
- "Bugger" - An informal and sometimes offensive term used to express annoyance, frustration, or disappointment.
References to the UK
The inclusion of references to the UK in Supernatural is primarily due to the show's overarching mythology, which involves ancient creatures, legends, and supernatural phenomena that often originate from European folklore. Several storylines and episodes take place in the UK, particularly London, and feature locations such as the Tower of London, the British Library, and Stonehenge. These references serve to enhance the show's sense of mystery, history, and global scale, drawing upon the rich tapestry of British culture and folklore.
Moreover, the show's main character, Sam Winchester, is a scholar and researcher of the supernatural, and he frequently refers to British texts, legends, and historical figures in his studies and investigations. This adds another layer of authenticity and depth to the show's exploration of the supernatural world.