While Australia does speak English, they tend to put (a lot of) their own Australian flair into it. Sometimes I’ll be having a conversation and completely miss a key word, having to Google what it means later. Here’s a starter list that you should probably know before visiting Oz!
Arvo - means afternoon. Aussies like to shorten several words and add a –o at the end. Devo means devastated, avo is avocado, etc.
Bogan – Australian’s version of a redneck. I have yet to meet a bogan, but they tend to live out in the bush.
Brekkie – Like with arvo, brekkie is a shortened word for brekkie. This word is especially important in Melbourne, as everyone loves to go to cafés and get a brekkie of avo toast.
Chips – Australia pulls from Britain roots with this term. In Australia, chips are French fries and crisps are America’s version of chips.
Goon – A very popular term in Australia meaning boxed wine.
Grog – Australia’s term for any kind of alcohol, though usually referring to beer.
Keen – One of the most common terms I’ve heard in Australia, keen means you’re looking forward to or eager to do something. I don’t think you can go a day without hearing someone use ‘keen’ at some point.
Macca’s – The word Australians call McDonald’s. Macca’s here are very similar to home, so the only thing you have to worry about is calling it the correct name!
Ripper – Meaning something that is particularly wonderful, like “a ripper of a time” when everyone has a good time.
Servo – The Australian word for a gas station. Also important to note that the gas prices here are much higher than in the States (unfortunately).
Sweet As – This phrase is more common in New Zealand, but it means really good or awesome.
Togs – Australians call bikinis and swimsuits togs, along with other words like swimmers and bathers. You’ll get a strange look if you say you’re going to wear your swimsuit to the beach!
Thongs – These are actually flip flogs and not underwear. The funny thing about thongs is that you will see people wearing outfits consisting of sweatpants, a North Face jacket, and a pair of thongs. I guess no one really knows how to dress for the weather in Melbourne!
There is loads more slang to be heard in Australia, but hopefully this beginner list will leave you less confused than I!