Australian English  (a short introduction)

Some explanation of Australian English

Please keep in your mind that Australian language is changing (as language does in other countries). This is a result of great changes in society. As the society changes, so does the language. So, older Australian idioms and slang are not used so much by all Australians anymore. Also American slang such as “dude”, “cool”, “chill out” and “bling”  have become common.  

1. Common old Australian slang words  

mate                            friend

ta                                 thank you

ta-ta                            bye bye, or see you

sanger                         a sandwich

banger                        a sausage

barbie                         barbecue

bewdy!                        great!   [beauty]

footy                          Australian football

2. A few common Australian words and phrases  

The big smoke –  This is what country people call the big cities.

The sticks – This is what city people call places in the country. (it means far away from the convenience of the city).

Don’t worry about it   – it’s ok OR don’t take too much trouble.

Good on you               – I like what you said or did.

Hang on                      – wait a minute.

BELOW ARE MORE EXAMPLES

A. Did you bring an umbrella?

B. No, I forgot.

A. Don`t worry about it, I have 2 umbrellas.

B. Good on you.

A.Can you help me?

B. Hang on, I`ll just answer my phone first.

A. Ok, I`ll wait.

“Don´t worry about it” (This is casual speech)

You say it if somebody apologises about something, e.g.
A. I´m sorry I´m late
B. Don´t worry about it.

If somebody thanks you e.g.
A. Thank´s for the lift.
B. Don´t worry about it.

(if you spill a drink, or bump into somebody)

“a lift” – a ride in somebody else´s car.

“do you mind?” e.g.
A. Do you mind giving me a lift into the city?
B. Sure, no worries.

(not a problem)

“Good on you” –

This is a sign of good feelings toward you.

Somebody may say this if you help them carry shopping groceries,

or if you open the door for them

or if you have been doing something good like hard study, or you have finished writing an essay.

3. Common greetings 

A bit formal –
A.Good morning/afternoon
B. Good morning/afternoon

A.How are you?
B. Fine thank you, and yourself?
A I`m well, thank you

A bit  casual –
A.Good day, mate                      B. Good day.
A .How you going?                     B. Pretty good, and you?
A. I`m good.

Very casual –
A.Hi                                                    B. Hi
A. How are you?                                  B. Not bad
A. What`s new?                                   B. Nothing much.
A. Did you have a good weekend?         B. Pretty good.