To ?fash? means to trouble, bother, or annoy. So, ?dinna fash? means ?don't worry!?

"Dinna fash" is a traditional Scots phrase that translates to "don't worry" or "don't be bothered." The word "fash" is derived from the Old French fascher, meaning to annoy, weary, or trouble. It is often used as a comforting remark to tell someone not to get upset or stressed over a particular situation. The phrase gained significant global popularity in recent years due to its frequent use in the "Outlander" book and television series, where the character Jamie Fraser often says "Dinna fash, Sassenach" to his wife, Claire. In 2026, you will still hear it used in daily conversation throughout Scotland, particularly by the older generation or in rural areas. It perfectly captures a certain Scottish stoicism—encouraging a calm and "no-nonsense" approach to life's minor inconveniences and irritations.

“Dinna fash” is a Scots phrase that means “don’t worry” or “don’t be troubled/upset.”

Here’s a breakdown:

• Dinna: A contraction of “dinnae,” which is the Scots word for “do not.”
• Fash: Means “to worry, bother, or trouble oneself.” (From the French fâcher, meaning “to anger” or “to annoy.”)

So, when someone says “Dinna fash,” they are giving you a friendly, reassuring instruction to not fret or be concerned about something.

Key Points & Usage:

• Tone: It’s generally warm, colloquial, and often used in a comforting or slightly dismissive way (e.g., “Dinna fash yersel” – “Don’t trouble yourself”).
• Popularity: While it’s a genuine part of the Scots language, its modern recognition outside Scotland has been greatly boosted by the TV series Outlander, where characters use it frequently.
• Variations: You might also hear “Dinna fash yersel” (“Don’t trouble yourself”) or simply “Fash nae mair” (“Worry no more”).

In short, if someone tells you “Dinna fash,” you can take it as the Scottish equivalent of “Don’t sweat it,” “No worries,” or “Relax.”