What does 'do you fancy' mean in British English?

What it means: To want something, like something, or be attracted to someone. "Fancy" is a very common British word that does the work of "want," "like," and "find attractive" depending on context.

Three main uses:

1. To want something: "Do you fancy a coffee?" = "Would you like a coffee?"
2. To like or enjoy something: "I fancy a walk." = "I feel like going for a walk."
3. To be attracted to someone: "She fancies him." = "She likes him / is attracted to him."

• "Fancy a beer after work?"
• "I don't really fancy it, to be honest."
• "He's been fancying her for months."
• "Fancy that!" - British exclamation of mild surprise (less common now)

Why this word: "Fancy" in this sense comes from "fantasy" or "imagination" - you "fancy" something because you picture it in your mind and it appeals to you.

• "Do you want...?" (for food/drink)
• "Do you feel like...?" (for activities)
• "She likes him" (for attraction)

Register: Informal British English. Very natural in conversation. Americans understand it but wouldn't typically use it.

Tags: British English, wanting, attraction, everyday English, informal