Owen Colin
G’day mate! If you’re keen on learning how to speak like a true blue Aussie, you’ve come to the right place. Australian English has its unique flavor, filled with informal slang and distinctive expressions. In this guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways of saying things, with a focus on general Australian English rather than regional variations. So, let’s crack on and learn how to speak like a true Aussie!
The Greetings: Formal and Informal
When it comes to greetings in Australia, you’ll encounter both formal and informal expressions. In formal situations, Australians often use standard English greetings:
- Hello: This is a general greeting suitable for any formal situation.
- Good morning/afternoon/evening: Use these greetings depending on the time of day.
- How do you do?: This is a formal way to inquire about someone’s wellbeing, often used in more traditional settings.
In informal situations, Australians often favor more relaxed greetings, including:
- G’day: This is the quintessential Aussie greeting, short for “Good day.” It can be used at any time of day.
- Hey or Hi: These are casual greetings suitable for friends or acquaintances.
- How ya going?: This is a common informal way to ask about someone’s well-being, often used instead of “How are you?”
Common Australian Slang
Australians love their slang, and it’s a vital part of everyday conversation. Here are some popular slang words and phrases frequently used:
Arvo: Afternoon.
You might hear someone say, “See you in the arvo!”
Barbie: Barbecue.
“Put some snags on the barbie” means to cook some sausages on the grill.
Brekkie: Breakfast.
You may hear, “Let’s grab brekkie tomorrow!”
Chockers: Very full or busy.
If a bar is crowded, you could say, “It’s chockers in here.”
Sickie: A sick day off work or school.
If someone calls in sick, they might say, “I’m taking a sickie today.”
Australian Expressions and Idioms
Apart from slang, Australians also use colorful expressions and idioms. Here are a few examples:
Flat out like a lizard drinking: Very busy.
Example: “I can’t meet for a coffee; I’m flat out like a lizard drinking.”
No worries: Don’t worry about it, it’s okay.
Example: “Thanks for the help!” – “No worries!”
She’ll be right: Everything will be okay.
Example: “I’m running a bit late, but she’ll be right.”
Aussie Tips for Non-Australians
If you’re not from Australia, here are some handy tips to help you understand and fit in better:
- Avoid slang in formal situations: Stick to standard English in professional settings.
- Listen and observe: Pay attention to how Australians speak and use context to understand unfamiliar words or phrases.
- Don’t be afraid to ask: If you’re unsure about the meaning or pronunciation of a word, feel free to ask. Aussies are generally friendly and happy to help.
- Practice with locals: Engage in conversations with Australians to improve your grasp of the language and get acquainted with the local expressions.
Remember, speaking like an Australian takes time, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Embrace the laid-back nature of the language and enjoy the unique Australian culture!
So, whether you’re shouting “G’day mate!” or saying “No worries,” you’re well on your way to mastering the art of speaking Australian. Happy practicing!
