What is Australian slang?
Australian slang is a unique form of English that is used in Australia and across the world. It is often used in informal situations and can be difficult to understand for outsiders. While there is no one definitive definition of Australian slang, it typically includes terms that are specific to Australian culture and society.
Aussie Slang in the Workplace
Australia is known for its unique slang, and it’s also become popular all over the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at some Australian slang words used in the workplace and what they mean. Whether you’re a local or wanting to work in Australia you will want to know some of the lingo!
Common Aussie Slang Terms
Arvo
Afternoon
Bludger
A lazy person who avoids work
Chuck a sickie
To call in sick for work when you’re not sick
Dunny
Toilet
Hard Yakka
Hard work
Smoko
A cigarette break
Tradie
Tradesman/woman
Whinger
A person who repeatedly complains
Australian Slang in the Mining Industry
What is the Meaning of “Crib”?
The word ”crib” is a commonly used term in the mining and construction industries. “Crib” is the name given to a meal eaten at work; typically in a ‘crib room’. Rest breaks of around 20 minutes are also referred to as ‘crib breaks’, ‘rest pauses’ or ‘tea breaks’.
The worker is paid for this break but must remain in the immediate workplace and be readily available in the event of an emergency.
Workers bring their ‘crib’ to work in a ‘crib-bag’. Traditionally, underground miners played the card game cribbage (‘crib’) during meal breaks.
Crib Terminology
- Crib: Rest pause or tea break
- Crib time or Crib break: The period of time a worker spends eating.
- Crib room: The dining area, small shed or room where workers eat.
- Crib-bag: A bag used by workers to carry food and drinks.
- Cribbage: A card game.
C.R.I.B – The Military Origin
The word ‘crib’ is an acronym for the meals/ ration packs the WWI and WWII soldiers were supplied whilst in the field, it stands for
- (C) Combat
- (R) Rations
- (I) Individually
- (B) Boxed
Conclusion
Australian slang can be a little tough to understand at first, but with a little bit of effort it’s definitely worth learning. So whether you’re planning on visiting Australia soon or just want to learn the slang, knowing some of these terms will go a long way!
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