Introduction to Local Lingo for International Students in Australia
The journey to Australia for an overseas student can be an exciting experience, but it can be somewhat confusing when you come across the Australian language especially for international students in Australia. The Australians have a distinctive communication style full of vibrant idioms and phrases. To help you comprehend the jargon and speak better during your time in Australia, here’s a guide to a few commonly used Australian words, which will help you and other international students in Australia:
Table of Contents
G’day
Definition: This famous Australian greeting translates to “good day” and is frequently used casually to say “hello.
Example: “G’day mate! How’s your day going?”
Mate
The definition: Australians frequently refer to acquaintances, friends, or strangers as “mates.” It’s a word of affection and camaraderie.
Examples: “Hey mate, wanna have a coffee?”
Arvo
Definition: Short form of “afternoon,” Aussies often employ the term “arvo” to refer to plans or events later in the day.
Examples: “”Arvo” is Aussie slang for the afternoon, mate.”
Brekkie
Definition: An abbreviation of “breakfast.” Australians enjoy their brekkies. Many cafes serve delicious breakfast meals.
Example: “I love having a hearty brekkie with bacon and eggs on weekends.”
Barbie
Definition: Short for “barbecue.” Australians have a severe attitude towards barbeques, particularly in the summertime.
Examples: “We’re having a barbie at my place this Saturday, bring your favorite snags”
Bottle-O
Definition: A bottle shop or liquor shop where you can purchase alcohol-based drinks.
Examples: “I’ll swing by the bottle-o to grab some cold ones for the party.”
Snag
Definition: “Snag” refers to a sausage. “Snag” can be described as a type of sausage typically served on a slice of bread or as a sandwich.
Examples: “Throw another snag on the barbie; these sausages are sizzling!”
Brewno
Definition: Coffee or tea.
Examples: “Let’s catch up at the brewno for a couple of craft beers after work.
Thongs
Definition: What does “thongs” mean? “thongs” is used in Australia; “thongs” refer to sandals or flip-flops worn on your feet.
Examples: “I’m heading to the beach, so I’ll put on my Thongs.”
Maccas
Definition: Slang used to describe McDonald’s, one of Australia’s top fast-food chains.
Examples: “I’m craving some Maccas fries right now; they’re the best.”
Service
Definition: Shorthand for “service station” or “gas station.” This is the term you’ll see when filling up your car.
Examples: “I will stop at the service to get the fuel.”
Uni
Definition: An abbreviation used commonly for “university.” Australians frequently employ “uni” when discussing their university of higher education.
Examples: “I’m studying engineering at the university.”
Choccy
Definition: Short form for “chocolate.” Australians are amazed by their chocolate regardless of whether they’re desserts or chocolate bars.
Examples: “I’m craving some choccy after dinner.”
Ripper
The definition of “ripper” is a term that is used to show enthusiasm or approval. When something’s “ripper,” it’s fantastic.
Example: “That concert was an absolute blast!”
No worries
Definition: The Aussies are famous for their laid-back lifestyle; “no concerns” is a typical response to say that everything is in order or to comfort oneself.
Example: “Thanks for helping me out.” “No worries, mate.”
Bogan
Definition: A word used to refer to people perceived as uninformed, usually based on their style choices and speech or manner of conduct.
Examples: “That guy in the Flannel and mullet looks like a little bit of an edgy bogan.”
Brekky Roll
Definition: Breakfast roll or sandwich usually containing bacon, eggs, sausages, eggs, and other condiments.
Example: “I grabbed a brekky roll on my way to work.”
Ripperoni
Definition: A playful variant of “ripper” employed to convey an even greater level of enthusiasm or appreciation.
Examples: “You got the job? Ripperoni!”
Chuck U-ey
Defined: Australian Slang for making a U-turn on a vehicle, which is usually used to refer to turning back on the road.
Example: ” He had to chuck a U-ey on the highway ’cause he left his wallet.”
Tinnie
Definition: A small or canned glass bottle filled with beer. Australians are fond of the cool tinnie on the hot days.
Example: “Let’s crack open a couple of tinnies and then relax.”
Chrissie
Definition: Short form for “Christmas.” Australians frequently refer to the Christmas time as “Chrissie.”
Example: “We’re having a Barbie for Chrissie this year.”
Cuppa
Definition: The cup is a cup of tea or coffee. Australians take their coffees seriously.
Examples: “Let’s Fancy a cuppa, love? Let’s have a chat.”
Daggy
The definition of a term is used to describe someone or something as uncool, trendy, or funny in a humorous manner.
Examples: “Don’t mind me outfit, it’s a bit daggy, but it’s comfy as.”
Tradie
Definition: Short form for “tradesperson.” A tradie is employed in a trade like an electrician, plumber, or carpenter.
Example: “The tradie fixed our plumbing problem.”
Bush
The definition refers to remote or rural regions of Australia often characterized by forests, wilderness, and large open areas.
Examples: “Spent the weekend out in the bush.”
Sunnies
Definition: Short form for “sunglasses.” It is essential to shield your eyes against the Australian sun.
Examples: ” Grab your sunnies, it’s gonna be a scorcher of a day!”
Rip Snorter
Definition The term “ripper” is similar to “ripper,” this term conveys excitement or enthusiasm, however, with a little more focus.
Example: “Last night’s footy match was a rip snorter!”
Dunny
Definition: Slang term for toilets or restrooms. You may hear this word being used casually.
Examples: “Excuse me, where’s the dunny?”
Thirsty
Definition: The feeling of being dehydrated or needing a beverage. It is often utilized to express a person’s desire to drink.
Examples: “After a long day in the sun, I’m feeling real thirsty. Gonna grab a cold one?”
Conclusion
Understanding and using Australian Slang can be an enjoyable and enjoyable part of life for international students in Australia. Learn these terms, and you’ll soon be communicating with Australians more effectively and relishing the distinctive dialect of the land Down Under. These will make you stay in Australia more enjoyable. The use of this guide will enhance the local experience of International students in Australia.