AUSTRALIAN SLANG
From arvo to hard yakka
Everyday abbreviations, classic expressions and modern Australian slang—clearly explained.
A look, from rhyming slang.
Behave dramatically, complain or make unnecessary fuss.
A newly wealthy person whose tastes are still considered stereotypically bogan.
A friendly term of praise, though tone can make it sound condescending.
Thanks, goodbye or a toast, depending on context.
Have a relaxed, informal conversation.
A carpenter or joiner.
Chocolate or a chocolate drink.
Chocolate-flavoured milk.
A chicken.
Take a day off work by claiming to be ill, whether genuinely sick or not.
Have a tantrum or angry outburst.
Vomit or to vomit.
A city person thought to be unfamiliar with rural life.
A friend or companion, now often old-fashioned.
A person seen as holding extreme, conspiratorial or irrational beliefs.
A swimming costume or swimsuit, especially in New South Wales usage.
Become very angry or annoyed; contains mild vulgar language.
An excellent person, event or object; context can also refer to a biscuit or firework.
A crocodile.
Sick, unwell, dishonest or poor-quality depending on context.
A cup of tea or coffee.
An unfashionable, awkward but often likeable person.
Unfashionable, awkward or endearingly uncool.
A simple Australian bush bread traditionally cooked in coals.
Seriously, definitely or genuinely.
A sausage sandwich bought at a polling place fundraiser on election day.
A derogatory term for a rough, disreputable or socially disadvantaged person; use cautiously.
Australian slang for devastated or very disappointed.
Very disappointed or devastated.
Extremely bad, outrageous or wicked, often used with exaggerated humour.
A silly or foolish person.
Report someone's wrongdoing to an authority.
A person who reports someone else's wrongdoing to an authority.
A quilt or duvet used as bed covering.
A foolish or incompetent person.