Although Australia is an English speaking country, Australians have a unique style of language. As if the funny accents weren’t enough, Australians also have a tendency to shorten many words in the English vocabulary.

Whether you are planning on studying in Australia or have recently arrived, there are a few Australian terms that you should be aware of to help you through day-to-day conversation and keep yourself out of awkward situations.

The spread of Australian slang

Australian slang has influenced the English language around the world; thousands of Aussie words, definitions and phrases have been added to the Oxford online dictionary in the past few years.

Just as Australians have borrowed many words and incorporated them into their own version of English, other English-speakers are now borrowing from the Australian slang vocabulary. In fact, did you know the word ‘selfie’ has its origins in Australia?

Arriving to Australia with some knowledge of slang is definitely beneficial, so here’s a guide to get you started.

Diminutives

Australians – sorry – Aussies, are huge fans of diminutives. Diminutives are words that are formed by taking the first part of a word and substituting an a,o,ie, or y sound for the rest. Here are a few examples:

Idioms

An idiom is an expression, word or phrase that shouldn’t be taken literally, and Aussies love them. It’s a figurative form of speech and includes phrases like:

Similes

A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things or persons which are comparative to each other. Australians use them for ‘dramatic effect’, and common similes include:

• As dead as a dingo
• A face like a dropped pie
• Dry as a pommy’s towel
• Fit as a Mallee bull
• Going off like a frog in a sock

But for Aussies, diminutives, idioms and similes just won’t cut it. That’s why they throw a ton of ‘unique to Australia’ words and phrases for good measure. Why alter words when you can just make up new ones?

Expect to hear Aussie-only phrases such as:

Feeling confused?

Don’t panic. Any student can get by as long as they know these must-learn words. Bookmark this article so you can refer to it whenever you need and you’ll you’ll be fine. Here are 24 Australian words that every international student should know:

Thinking about studying in Australia?

So, you’re thinking about studying in Australia? Who can blame you? Australia is currently the third most popular destination for international students in the English-speaking world. Melbourne and Sydney are among the world’s best student cities based on student mix, affordability, quality of life, and employer activity.

Studying in Australia definitely has its perks, so take the plunge and find out more. While you’re at it, learn how to speak ‘Australian’ so that by the time you get here you’ll be well versed on the local lingo.