The Sussex accent, with its rich rural heritage, represents one of England’s most distinctive yet endangered regional dialects. Stretching from the South Downs to the coastal towns of Brighton and Hastings, the traditional Sussex accent varies significantly between West and East Sussex, each area maintaining its own unique linguistic characteristics. This historic accent carries echoes of the region’s agricultural past, though modern influences have created interesting variations across the county.
The traditional Sussex dialect, captured in the county’s proud motto “We wunt be druv” (we won’t be driven), has evolved differently in various parts of the county. The accent heard in bustling Brighton differs noticeably from that found in rural areas like the Weald or market towns such as Lewes and Arundel. Notable Sussex voices have included author Rudyard Kipling, who lived at Bateman’s in East Sussex, though today’s Sussex residents often display a softer, more modernized version of the traditional accent.
The modern Sussex accent exists in a state of transition, influenced by London’s expanding commuter culture while still maintaining distinctive local features in more rural areas. Brighton and Hove’s vibrant urban culture has developed its own unique twist on the accent, while coastal towns like Eastbourne and Worthing preserve elements of traditional Sussex speech patterns. This diversity makes Sussex particularly interesting for writers, as characters can authentically display varying degrees of the accent depending on their age, location, and background.
For writers seeking to capture authentic Sussex dialogue, it’s important to understand that the accent represents more than just another South Eastern variation – it carries its own unique rhythms and vocabulary that reflect the county’s distinct identity as a blend of rural tradition and modern urban life. While the pure Sussex dialect may be fading, its influence continues to color the speech patterns of residents throughout this diverse and beautiful county.
Here’s a comprehensive guide for writing the Sussex accent:
Core Characteristics
The traditional Sussex accent is a rural dialect that differs significantly from modern Southeast English accents. It’s important to note that the pure Sussex dialect has largely died out, though elements survive in rural areas, particularly in the regions around Pevensey Levels and areas south and west of Petworth and Midhurst[1].
Phonetic Features
Vowel Sounds
– ‘a’ before double ‘d’ becomes ‘ar’: “ladder” → “larder”
– ‘a’ before ‘t’ expands to ‘ea’: “rate” → “reate”
– Double ‘e’ becomes ‘i’: “sheep” → “ship”
– ‘i’ sounds become ‘ee’: “mice” → “meece”[2]
Consonants
– Double ‘t’ becomes ‘d’: “little” → “liddle”, “butter” → “budder”
– ‘th’ becomes ‘d’: “the” → “de”, “them” → “dem”
– Historically rhotic (pronounced ‘r’ after vowels)[2]
Grammar Structure
Traditional Features
– “Us” instead of “we” or “our”
– “Her” used for inanimate objects
– Double negatives common
– “I’low” for “I allow/suppose”[1]
Traditional Vocabulary
Common Terms
– “Adle” – slightly unwell
– “Argify” – to signify
– “Bly” – resemblance
– “Bunt” – to rock a cradle
– “Skice” – to run quickly and slyly
– “Sniggler” – slight frost
– “Snudge” – to walk with a stoop[1]
Modern Evolution
The accent varies significantly between:
– Rural areas (more traditional features)
– Urban areas (influenced by London)
– “Railway Sussex” – areas near train stations showing London influence[1]
Writing Tips
1. Consider character’s location within Sussex
2. Remember class and age affect accent strength
3. Use traditional vocabulary sparingly
4. Account for modern influences in urban areas
Famous Sussex Saying
“Sussex Won’t be Druv” – the county motto, meaning Sussex people won’t be driven or pushed around[1].
Remember that authentic Sussex dialect is increasingly rare, with most modern speakers using a mix of Estuary English and Standard Southern British English, especially in urban areas[2].
Sources
[1] Strange Tales of Old Sussex – The Sussex Dialect https://sussexexclusive.com/strange-tales-of-old-sussex-the-sussex-dialect/
[2] The Traditional Sussex Accent – Everything you need to know tutorial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rv_DiyUxQE
[3] Sussex Slang and Dialect – Brighton – North Stand Chat https://www.northstandchat.com/threads/sussex-slang-and-dialect.30708/
